2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2012 Buick LaCrosse
To start off, 2012 Buick LaCrosse is newer by 8 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 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Buick LaCrosse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Buick LaCrosse (182 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (134 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Buick LaCrosse should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Buick LaCrosse weights approximately 600 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, 2012 Buick LaCrosse, 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, 2012 Buick LaCrosse (233 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (169 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2012 Buick LaCrosse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2012 Buick LaCrosse 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. 2012 Buick LaCrosse will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2012 Buick LaCrosse | |
Make | Mazda | Buick |
Model | MX-5 Miata | LaCrosse |
Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1840 cc | 2400 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 134 HP | 182 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6700 RPM |
Torque | 169 Nm | 233 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4900 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1740 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 5001 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1857 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1504 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2837 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 59 L |