2008 Mazda 3 vs. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mazda 3 would be higher. Both 2008 Mazda 3 and 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata are equipped with a 1,998 cc engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2008 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 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 130 kg more than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2009 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 2009 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, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (182 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 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 | 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 3 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 188 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 87.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 1095 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1250 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.9 L/100km | 8.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 50 L |
