2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 vs. 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 2,260 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 (263 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 125 more horse power than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2005 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 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3, 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, 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 (381 Nm) has 211 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (170 Nm). This means 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 | 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | MazdaSpeed3 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2260 cc | 1835 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 263 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 381 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 8.4 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.8 L/100km | 10.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.2 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 48 L |
