2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2002 Nissan Maxima
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 Maxima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Nissan Maxima 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 20 more horse power than 2002 Nissan Maxima. (138 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2002 Nissan Maxima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 260 kg more 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 Maxima, 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 7 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Nissan Maxima. (181 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Nissan Maxima. 2002 Nissan Maxima has automatic transmission and 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Nissan Maxima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2002 Nissan Maxima | |
Make | Mazda | Nissan |
Model | MX-5 Miata | Maxima |
Year Released | 2007 | 2002 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1993 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 158 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 6400 RPM |
Torque | 188 Nm | 181 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1155 kg | 1415 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4930 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2760 mm |