2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2012 Honda Civic
To start off, 2012 Honda Civic is newer by 7 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 2,199 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Honda Civic is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Honda Civic (148 HP) has 36 more horse power than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (112 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Honda Civic should accelerate faster 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, 2012 Honda Civic, 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, 2012 Honda Civic (350 Nm) has 226 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 Nm). This means 2012 Honda Civic 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 | 2012 Honda Civic | |
| Make | Mazda | Honda |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Civic |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 2199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 112 HP | 148 HP |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1785 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1460 mm |
