2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata (178 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda 3 weights approximately 153 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, 2012 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 2012 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 2012 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | MX-5 Miata | 3 |
Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1835 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 178 HP | 148 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 | 1300 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4590 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1755 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1471 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2639 mm |
Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.1 L/100km | 7.1 L/100km |
Fuel Consumption City | 11.8 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 55 L |