2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2003 Scion xB
To start off, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Scion xB. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Scion xB would be higher. At 1,597 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata (108 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2003 Scion xB. (106 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2003 Scion xB.
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, 2003 Scion xB, 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, 2003 Scion xB (142 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (134 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2003 Scion xB will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2003 Scion xB has automatic transmission and 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Scion xB will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2003 Scion xB | |
| Make | Mazda | Scion |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | xB |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 1489 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 142 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1650 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 45 L |
