2006 Kia Carens vs. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2006 Kia Carens is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Kia Carens is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Kia Carens (112 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (99 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Kia Carens should accelerate faster than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Kia Carens weights approximately 494 kg more than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 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 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Kia Carens, 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, both vehicles can yield 245 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Kia Carens | 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Kia | Mazda |
| Model | Carens | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 112 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 85.1 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1549 kg | 1055 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1620 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2270 mm |
