2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2007 Nissan Sentra
To start off, 2007 Nissan Sentra is newer by 4 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 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Nissan Sentra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Nissan Sentra (140 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (112 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Nissan Sentra should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
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, 2007 Nissan Sentra, 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, 2007 Nissan Sentra (200 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2007 Nissan Sentra 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 | 2007 Nissan Sentra | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Sentra |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 112 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |
