2005 Kia Optima vs. 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Kia Optima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Kia Optima would be higher. At 2,671 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 170 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar.
Because 2007 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 2007 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 (241 Nm) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (190 Nm). This means 2005 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Kia Optima | 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Kia | Mazda |
| Model | Optima | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2671 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 87.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 50 L |
