2004 Mazda 3 vs. 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata (158 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 3. (99 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 43 kg more than 2004 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 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 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 3, 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 MX-5 Miata (189 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Mazda 3 | 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | 3 | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 2004 | 2006 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1999 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 99 HP | 158 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6700 RPM |
Torque | 145 Nm | 189 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 86.4 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 83.8 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1086 kg | 1129 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 3990 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1250 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2340 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.2 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 50 L |