2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2008 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. Both 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata and 2008 Mazda 3 are equipped with a 1,999 cc engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata (166 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 2008 Mazda 3. (149 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 3 weights approximately 33 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, 2008 Mazda 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 (191 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2008 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 3 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 166 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 191 Nm | 187 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1202 kg | 1235 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.7 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 55 L |
