2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2006 Mazda 6
To start off, 2006 Mazda 6 is newer by 2 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 2,262 cc, 2006 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata (178 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 6. (160 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda 6 weights approximately 239 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, 2006 Mazda 6, 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 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 6. (210 Nm). This means 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 6.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2006 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 6 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1835 cc | 2262 cc |
| Horse Power | 178 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1147 kg | 1386 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.1 L/100km | 7.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.8 L/100km | 10.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.7 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 68 L |
