2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2006 Mazda 6
To start off, 2006 Mazda 6 is newer by 3 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 2,260 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 139 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar.
Because 2003 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 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Mazda 6 (210 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (168 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda 6 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 | 2006 Mazda 6 | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | MX-5 Miata | 6 |
Year Released | 2003 | 2006 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1840 cc | 2260 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 139 HP | 139 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 168 Nm | 210 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.7:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4750 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2680 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 50 L |