2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2003 Peugeot 406
To start off, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Peugeot 406. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Peugeot 406 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 (171 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 2003 Peugeot 406. (136 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2003 Peugeot 406. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 49 kg more than 2003 Peugeot 406. 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, 2003 Peugeot 406, 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 Peugeot 406 (197 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2003 Peugeot 406 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 | 2003 Peugeot 406 | |
| Make | Mazda | Peugeot |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 406 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 171 HP | 136 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1361 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.7 L/100km | 5.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 70 L |
