2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2012 Suzuki SX4
To start off, 2012 Suzuki SX4 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 1,956 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Suzuki SX4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata (178 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 2012 Suzuki SX4. (133 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2012 Suzuki SX4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Suzuki SX4 weights approximately 253 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 Suzuki SX4, 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 Suzuki SX4 (320 Nm) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (220 Nm). This means 2012 Suzuki SX4 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 | 2012 Suzuki SX4 | |
| Make | Mazda | Suzuki |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | SX4 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1835 cc | 1956 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 178 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 11:01 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1147 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1605 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.1 L/100km | 4.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.8 L/100km | 6.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.7 L/100km | 5.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 50 L |
