2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2012 Acura TSX
To start off, 2012 Acura TSX is newer by 6 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 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Acura TSX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Acura TSX (201 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (159 HP @ 6700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Acura TSX should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Acura TSX weights approximately 419 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, 2012 Acura TSX, 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, 2012 Acura TSX (230 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2012 Acura TSX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2012 Acura TSX has automatic transmission and 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Acura TSX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2012 Acura TSX | |
| Make | Mazda | Acura |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | TSX |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 159 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1155 kg | 1574 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4714 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1839 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1438 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2708 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 70 L |
