2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2002 Toyota Corolla
To start off, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Toyota Corolla. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Toyota Corolla would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata (170 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 2002 Toyota Corolla. (83 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2002 Toyota Corolla. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 110 kg more than 2002 Toyota Corolla. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2002 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, 2002 Toyota Corolla (220 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2002 Toyota Corolla will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2002 Toyota Corolla | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Corolla |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4390 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 50 L |
