2004 Mazda MX vs. 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mazda MX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mazda MX would be higher. At 2,261 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mazda MX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2004 Mazda MX. (160 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda MX.
Because 2012 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 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Mazda MX, 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 (207 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2004 Mazda MX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2004 Mazda MX has automatic transmission and 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mazda MX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Mazda MX | 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | MX | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2261 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 160 HP | 167 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 7000 RPM |
Torque | 207 Nm | 190 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed manual |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 3995 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1245 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2329 mm |