2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2001 Mazda 323
To start off, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata (178 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 2001 Mazda 323. (124 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2001 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mazda 323 weights approximately 73 kg more than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Mazda 323, 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 Mazda MX-5 Miata (220 Nm) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mazda 323. (167 Nm). This means 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2001 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 323 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1835 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 178 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1147 kg | 1220 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 55 L |
