2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2012 Mazda 6
To start off, 2012 Mazda 6 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 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata (178 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 6. (170 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda 6 weights approximately 363 kg more 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 Mazda 6, 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 6 (226 Nm) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (225 Nm). This means 2012 Mazda 6 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 6 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 6 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1835 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 178 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 226 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1147 kg | 1510 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4755 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1795 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2789 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.1 L/100km | 7.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.8 L/100km | 10.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 70 L |
