2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2001 Toyota Corolla
To start off, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Toyota Corolla. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Toyota Corolla would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 2001 Toyota Corolla. (97 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2001 Toyota Corolla.
Because 2006 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 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Toyota Corolla, 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 MX-5 Miata (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Toyota Corolla. (150 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Toyota Corolla.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2001 Toyota Corolla | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Corolla |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1398 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 97 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
