2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3
To start off, 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 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 2,298 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 (250 HP @ 3000 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 should accelerate faster 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 MazdaSpeed3, 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, 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 (380 Nm) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (170 Nm). This means 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 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 | 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | MazdaSpeed3 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1835 cc | 2298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 250 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 94 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1790 mm |
