2008 Mazda CX-7 vs. 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2008 Mazda CX-7 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 2,260 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda CX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda CX-7 (244 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (139 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda CX-7 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda CX-7 weights approximately 40 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 CX-7, 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 CX-7 (351 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 183 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (168 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda CX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2008 Mazda CX-7 has automatic transmission and 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mazda CX-7 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda CX-7 | 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | CX-7 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2260 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 244 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 351 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 188 km/hour | 205 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.4 L/100km | 8.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 69 L | 50 L |
