2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2004 Nissan Murano
To start off, 2004 Nissan Murano is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 3,507 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Nissan Murano is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Nissan Murano (245 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 133 more horse power than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (112 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Nissan Murano should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Nissan Murano weights approximately 771 kg more than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Nissan Murano is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Nissan Murano will offer significantly more control. 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, 2004 Nissan Murano (328 Nm) has 204 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 Nm). This means 2004 Nissan Murano will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2004 Nissan Murano | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Murano |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Crossover |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 3507 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 112 HP | 245 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 328 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 1796 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1700 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 82 L |
