2003 Mazda 3 vs. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (149 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 3. (143 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda 3 weights approximately 215 kg more than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 3, 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, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 3. (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Mazda 3 | 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | 3 | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 143 HP | 149 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 187 Nm | 188 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 87.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 83.1 mm |
Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 9 seconds | 7.9 seconds |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1095 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4000 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1250 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1730 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2340 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.4 L/100km | 8.2 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 50 L |