2003 Mazda 3 vs. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 6 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 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda 3 (160 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda 3 weights approximately 90 kg more than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 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, 2003 Mazda 3 (195 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Mazda 3 | 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | 3 | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1798 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 160 HP | 124 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 195 Nm | 167 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 83.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 83.1 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 9 seconds | 9.9 seconds |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1150 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4030 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1260 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2340 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.4 L/100km | 7 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 50 L |