2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2002 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Nissan Altima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Nissan Altima would be higher. At 2,488 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Nissan Altima (173 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (170 HP @ 6700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
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, 2002 Nissan Altima, 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, 2002 Nissan Altima (244 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2002 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2002 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Altima |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2488 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 244 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 76 L |
