2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2011 Lexus LFA
To start off, 2011 Lexus LFA 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 4,805 cc (10 cylinders), 2011 Lexus LFA is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Lexus LFA (552 HP @ 8700 RPM) has 414 more horse power than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Lexus LFA should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Lexus LFA weights approximately 395 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 LFA (480 Nm) has 310 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (170 Nm). This means 2011 Lexus LFA 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 LFA | |
| Make | Mazda | Lexus |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | LFA |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1835 cc | 4805 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 10 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 552 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 8700 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 480 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1085 kg | 1480 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3950 mm | 4505 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1895 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1220 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2605 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 73 L |
