2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2007 Mazda 3
To start off, 2007 Mazda 3 is newer by 3 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 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata (178 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 2007 Mazda 3. (149 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2007 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mazda 3 weights approximately 33 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, 2007 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, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata (220 Nm) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Mazda 3. (183 Nm). This means 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2007 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 3 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1835 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 178 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1147 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.1 L/100km | 6.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.8 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.7 L/100km | 7.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 55 L |
