2005 Lexus ES vs. 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2005 Lexus ES 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 2,994 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Lexus ES is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Lexus ES (208 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (139 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Lexus ES should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Lexus ES weights approximately 420 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 Lexus ES, 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 Lexus ES (298 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (168 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2005 Lexus ES will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2005 Lexus ES has automatic transmission and 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Lexus ES will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Lexus ES | 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Lexus | Mazda |
| Model | ES | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2994 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 208 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2270 mm |
