2005 Kia Optima vs. 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2005 Kia Optima is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 2,670 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Kia Optima (170 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (112 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Kia Optima weights approximately 462 kg more than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Kia Optima, 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, 2005 Kia Optima (245 Nm) has 121 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 Nm). This means 2005 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
2005 Kia Optima | 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | Kia | Mazda |
Model | Optima | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 2005 | 2003 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2670 cc | 1498 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 170 HP | 112 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 245 Nm | 124 Nm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1487 kg | 1025 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 3960 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1680 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1240 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2270 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 50 L |