2008 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 vs. 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2008 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 2,260 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 (263 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (178 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 weights approximately 33 kg more than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MazdaSpeed3, 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 MazdaSpeed3 (380 Nm) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (220 Nm). This means 2008 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 | 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | MazdaSpeed3 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2260 cc | 1835 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 263 HP | 178 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 380 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1147 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.2 L/100km | 9.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 13.2 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.1 L/100km | 10.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 48 L |
