2005 Kia Spectra vs. 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2005 Kia Spectra is newer by 1 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata (108 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2005 Kia Spectra. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2005 Kia Spectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 16 kg more than 2005 Kia Spectra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2005 Kia Spectra, 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 Spectra (145 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (135 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2005 Kia Spectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Kia Spectra | 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Kia | Mazda |
| Model | Spectra | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1594 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.4 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1094 kg | 1110 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 50 L |
