2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2012 Mazda 5
To start off, 2012 Mazda 5 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 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda 5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda 5 (157 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (108 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 5 should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda 5 weights approximately 440 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, 2012 Mazda 5, 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 Mazda 5 (221 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (134 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda 5 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 Mazda 5 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 5 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4585 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1615 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2751 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 60 L |
