2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 2,260 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (263 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (171 HP @ 6700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 81 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3.
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, 2009 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, 2009 Mazda 3 (381 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 191 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 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 | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | MX-5 Miata | 3 |
Year Released | 2006 | 2009 |
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 |
Horse Power | 171 HP | 263 HP |
Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 190 Nm | 381 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1329 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4500 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2650 mm |
Fuel Consumption | 7.8 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
Fuel Consumption City | 9.8 L/100km | 13.1 L/100km |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.7 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 55 L |