2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2011 Honda Civic
To start off, 2011 Honda Civic is newer by 7 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 1,835 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Honda Civic (140 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Honda Civic should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Honda Civic weights approximately 76 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, 2011 Honda Civic, 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, 2011 Honda Civic (173 Nm) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (170 Nm). This means 2011 Honda Civic 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 | 2011 Honda Civic | |
| Make | Mazda | Honda |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Civic |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1835 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 173 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1186 kg |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 8.4 L/100km | 6.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 10.2 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 50 L |
