2008 Mazda CX-9 vs. 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA
To start off, 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mazda CX-9. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mazda CX-9 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 108 more horse power than 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA. (165 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda CX-9 should accelerate faster than 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA.
Because 2013 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 2013 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 176 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA. (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda CX-9 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA. 2008 Mazda CX-9 has automatic transmission and 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA has manual transmission. 2013 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 | 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | CX-9 | MX-5 MIATA |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2013 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3496 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 273 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 366 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5080 mm | 4032 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1940 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1255 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2330 mm |
