2006 Mazda 2 vs. 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2006 Mazda 2 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata (139 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 2. (79 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 15 kg more than 2006 Mazda 2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 2, 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, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata (168 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 2. (124 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 2 | 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 2 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1388 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 164 km/hour | 205 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 14.2 seconds | 8.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 1140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3930 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.6 L/100km | 8.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 50 L |
