2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1996 Mazda MX-3
To start off, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mazda MX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda MX-3 would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata (158 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1996 Mazda MX-3. (106 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda MX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 96 kg more than 1996 Mazda MX-3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 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 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Mazda MX-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, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda MX-3. (134 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda MX-3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1996 Mazda MX-3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | MX-3 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1155 kg | 1059 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 65 L |
