2006 Mazda 6 vs. 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2006 Mazda 6 is newer by 1 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 2,966 cc, 2006 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda 6 (215 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (112 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda 6 weights approximately 95 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, 2006 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, 2006 Mazda 6 (271 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 147 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 6 | 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 6 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2966 cc | 1498 cc |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 112 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 50 L |
