2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2011 Toyota Matrix
To start off, 2011 Toyota Matrix 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 1,837 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 7 more horse power than 2011 Toyota Matrix. (132 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2011 Toyota Matrix.
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 Toyota Matrix, 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 Toyota Matrix (173 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (168 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2011 Toyota Matrix will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2011 Toyota Matrix has automatic transmission and 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Toyota Matrix will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2011 Toyota Matrix | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Matrix |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1837 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 132 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 173 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4366 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1765 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1549 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2601 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 50 L |
