2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2003 Subaru R2
To start off, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Subaru R2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Subaru R2 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata (159 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 2003 Subaru R2. (44 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2003 Subaru R2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 295 kg more than 2003 Subaru R2. 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, 2003 Subaru R2, 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 130 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Subaru R2. (58 Nm @ 5200 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Subaru R2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2003 Subaru R2 | |
| Make | Mazda | Subaru |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | R2 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 658 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 159 HP | 44 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 58 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 56 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 66.8 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 800 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 3400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1250 mm | 1480 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1530 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2370 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 30 L |
