2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2004 Scion tC
To start off, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Scion tC. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Scion tC would be higher. At 2,362 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Scion tC is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Scion tC (158 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (142 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Scion tC should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 351 kg more than 2004 Scion tC.
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, 2004 Scion tC, 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, 2004 Scion tC (221 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (168 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2004 Scion tC will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2004 Scion tC | |
| Make | Mazda | Scion |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | tC |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1839 cc | 2362 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 96 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1671 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 45 L |
