2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2009 Mercury Mariner
To start off, 2009 Mercury Mariner 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 2,967 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mercury Mariner is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercury Mariner (240 HP @ 6550 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercury Mariner should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2009 Mercury Mariner is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mercury Mariner will offer significantly more control. 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 Mercury Mariner (302 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercury Mariner 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 Mercury Mariner | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercury |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Mariner |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2967 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 240 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6550 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 302 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
