2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2011 Lexus GS
To start off, 2011 Lexus GS is newer by 6 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Lexus GS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Lexus GS (340 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 200 more horse power than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (140 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Lexus GS should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Lexus GS weights approximately 735 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2011 Lexus GS (362 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 202 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (160 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2011 Lexus GS 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 | 2011 Lexus GS | |
| Make | Mazda | Lexus |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | GS |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1839 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 340 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 362 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1821 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1425 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 65 L |
