2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2002 Mazda MPV
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mazda MPV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mazda MPV would be higher. At 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Mazda MPV is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (124 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2002 Mazda MPV. (120 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2002 Mazda MPV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mazda MPV weights approximately 408 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, 2002 Mazda MPV, 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, 2002 Mazda MPV (175 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2002 Mazda MPV will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2002 Mazda MPV | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | MPV |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1192 kg | 1600 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2850 mm |
