2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2011 Mitsubishi Outlander
To start off, 2011 Mitsubishi Outlander is newer by 8 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 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mitsubishi Outlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mitsubishi Outlander (168 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (112 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mitsubishi Outlander 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, 2011 Mitsubishi Outlander, 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, 2011 Mitsubishi Outlander (226 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2011 Mitsubishi Outlander 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 | 2011 Mitsubishi Outlander | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Outlander |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 112 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 226 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4666 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1801 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 63 L |
