2005 Mazda 3 vs. 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2005 Mazda 3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata (112 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2005 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda 3 weights approximately 115 kg more than 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2002 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 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Mazda 3, 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 Mazda 3 (148 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda 3 | 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 3 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 112 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 50 L |
