2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2001 Toyota Corolla
To start off, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Toyota Corolla. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Toyota Corolla would be higher. At 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata (124 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 2001 Toyota Corolla. (96 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2001 Toyota Corolla. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 5 kg more than 2001 Toyota Corolla. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Toyota Corolla, 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 MX-5 Miata (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Toyota Corolla. (132 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Toyota Corolla.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2001 Toyota Corolla | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Corolla |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 1398 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 132 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2480 mm |
