2003 Acura TL vs. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2003 Acura TL is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 3,210 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Acura TL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Acura TL (225 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (138 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Acura TL should accelerate faster than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Acura TL weights approximately 553 kg more than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 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 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Acura TL, 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, 2003 Acura TL (294 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 132 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (162 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Acura TL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2003 Acura TL has automatic transmission and 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Acura TL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Acura TL | 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | Acura | Mazda |
Model | TL | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 2003 | 1999 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3210 cc | 1840 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 225 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 294 Nm | 162 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 85 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1578 kg | 1025 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 3980 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1230 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2270 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 50 L |