2008 Mazda CX-9 vs. 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2008 Mazda CX-9 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 3,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mazda CX-9 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda CX-9 (273 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 135 more horse power than 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (138 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda CX-9 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 1998 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 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mazda CX-9, 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-9 (366 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 204 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (162 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda CX-9 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2008 Mazda CX-9 has automatic transmission and 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mazda CX-9 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda CX-9 | 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | CX-9 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3496 cc | 1839 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 273 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 366 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5080 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1940 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2270 mm |
