2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2005 Mazda 3
To start off, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 2,260 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda 3 (160 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (158 HP @ 6700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda 3 weights approximately 124 kg more than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 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, 2005 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, 2005 Mazda 3 (203 Nm) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (189 Nm). This means 2005 Mazda 3 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 | 2005 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | MX-5 Miata | 3 |
Year Released | 2006 | 2005 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2260 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 158 HP | 160 HP |
Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 189 Nm | 203 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 87 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.8 mm | 94 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1129 kg | 1253 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3990 mm | 4490 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2650 mm |
Fuel Consumption Highway | 7.8 L/100km | 7.4 L/100km |
Fuel Consumption City | 9.4 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.7 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |