2007 Mazda 3 vs. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2007 Mazda 3 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda 3 (149 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (110 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mazda 3 weights approximately 60 kg more than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 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 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata (241 Nm) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Mazda 3. (183 Nm). This means 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mazda 3 | 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 3 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1839 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 149 HP | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 241 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2270 mm |
