2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2010 Mazda MazdaSpeed3
To start off, 2010 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 is newer by 5 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 2,300 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 (263 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (178 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 weights approximately 325 kg more than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 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, 2010 Mazda MazdaSpeed3, 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, 2010 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 (379 Nm) has 154 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (225 Nm). This means 2010 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 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 | 2010 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | MazdaSpeed3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1835 cc | 2300 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 178 HP | 263 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 379 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1147 kg | 1472 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4511 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1461 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 9.1 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.8 L/100km | 13.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 60 L |
