2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2001 Mazda 6
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mazda 6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mazda 6 would be higher. Both 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata and 2001 Mazda 6 are equipped with a 1,999 cc engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (166 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 2001 Mazda 6. (139 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2001 Mazda 6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mazda 6 weights approximately 43 kg more than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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 MX-5 Miata (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mazda 6. (181 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mazda 6. 2001 Mazda 6 has automatic transmission and 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Mazda 6 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2001 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 6 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 166 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 181 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1332 kg | 1375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 8.4 L/100km | 7.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.2 L/100km | 12.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.9 L/100km | 9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 64 L |
