2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2005 Mazda 3
To start off, 2005 Mazda 3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,837 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata (139 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 2005 Mazda 3. (108 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 545 kg more than 2005 Mazda 3. 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, 2005 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, 2005 Mazda 3 (225 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (168 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda 3 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 | 2005 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 3 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1837 cc | 1560 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 208 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.4 seconds | 11.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.9 L/100km | 5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |
