2008 Mazda 5 vs. 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mazda 5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mazda 5 would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda 5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 5 (143 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 5 should accelerate faster than 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2011 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 2011 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, 2008 Mazda 5 (185 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 5 | 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 5 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 3995 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1620 mm | 1245 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2329 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 48 L |
