2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2003 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Nissan Altima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Nissan Altima would be higher. At 2,488 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Nissan Altima (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (178 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Nissan Altima weights approximately 143 kg more than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2003 Nissan Altima, 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, 2003 Nissan Altima (231 Nm) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (220 Nm). This means 2003 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2003 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Altima |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1835 cc | 2488 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 178 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 100 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1147 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 73 L |
