2008 Mazda 3 vs. 1995 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1995 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Mazda MX-5 Miata (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2008 Mazda 3. (83 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1995 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 189 kg more than 1995 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 1995 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 1995 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, 1995 Mazda MX-5 Miata (129 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (124 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1995 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 1995 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 3 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1995 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1349 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 129 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1155 kg | 966 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2270 mm |
