2004 Dodge Intrepid vs. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Dodge Intrepid. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Dodge Intrepid would be higher. At 2,736 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Dodge Intrepid is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Dodge Intrepid (197 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (166 HP @ 6700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Dodge Intrepid should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Dodge Intrepid weights approximately 241 kg more than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Dodge Intrepid, 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, 2004 Dodge Intrepid (258 Nm @ 4850 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2004 Dodge Intrepid will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2004 Dodge Intrepid has automatic transmission and 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Dodge Intrepid will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Dodge Intrepid | 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Dodge | Mazda |
| Model | Intrepid | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2736 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 166 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 258 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4850 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1570 kg | 1329 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5180 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2340 mm |
