2008 Mazda 6 vs. 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2008 Mazda 6 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 2,261 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 6 (264 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 160 more horse power than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (104 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 6 weights approximately 238 kg more than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 6, 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 6 (380 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 246 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (134 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 6 | 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 6 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2261 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 264 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 380 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.6 seconds | 9.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1354 kg | 1116 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.9 L/100km | 8.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 50 L |
