2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2008 Scion tC
To start off, 2008 Scion tC is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 2,399 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Scion tC is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata (178 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 2008 Scion tC. (161 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2008 Scion tC. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Scion tC weights approximately 183 kg more than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
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, 2008 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, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata (225 Nm) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Scion tC. (221 Nm). This means 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Scion tC.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2008 Scion tC | |
| Make | Mazda | Scion |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | tC |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1835 cc | 2399 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 178 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1147 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.1 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.8 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.7 L/100km | 10.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 55 L |
