2003 Mazda 6 vs. 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda 6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda 6 would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 6. (119 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda 6 weights approximately 295 kg more than 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2012 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 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 6, 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, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 6. (186 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 6. 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata has automatic transmission and 2003 Mazda 6 has manual transmission. 2003 Mazda 6 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Mazda 6 | 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | 6 | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1840 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 119 HP | 167 HP |
Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 7000 RPM |
Torque | 186 Nm | 190 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 1125 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 3995 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1245 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2329 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 48 L |