2008 Mazda 5 vs. 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2008 Mazda 5 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata (170 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 2008 Mazda 5. (118 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda 5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 5 weights approximately 65 kg more than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2006 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 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 5, 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, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 5. (165 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 5.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 5 | 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 5 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1475 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1620 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.9 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 48 L |
