2006 Mazda 3 vs. 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata (116 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (105 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda 3 weights approximately 215 kg more than 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 1989 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 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 3, 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, 2006 Mazda 3 (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (137 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 3 | 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 3 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 188 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1185 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2270 mm |
