2002 Toyota Corolla vs. 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA
To start off, 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Toyota Corolla. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Toyota Corolla would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA (165 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 2002 Toyota Corolla. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA should accelerate faster than 2002 Toyota Corolla. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA weights approximately 12 kg more than 2002 Toyota Corolla. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Toyota Corolla, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Toyota Corolla. (149 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Toyota Corolla. 2002 Toyota Corolla has automatic transmission and 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA has manual transmission. 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Toyota Corolla will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Toyota Corolla | 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA | |
| Make | Toyota | Mazda |
| Model | Corolla | MX-5 MIATA |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 149 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1182 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4390 mm | 4032 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1255 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2330 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 48 L |
