2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2009 Mazda 6
To start off, 2009 Mazda 6 is newer by 6 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, 2009 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 6 (147 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (139 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 6 weights approximately 215 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 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, 2009 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, 2009 Mazda 6 (186 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (168 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 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 | 2009 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 6 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 1999 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 147 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 205 km/hour | 212 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.5 seconds | 9.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1355 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1800 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.9 L/100km | 7.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 64 L |
