2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2002 Toyota FCHV 5

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 Toyota FCHV 5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Toyota FCHV 5 would be higher. At 2,981 cc, 2002 Toyota FCHV 5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Toyota FCHV 5 (190 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (159 HP @ 6700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Toyota FCHV 5 should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Toyota FCHV 5 weights approximately 531 kg more than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

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 Toyota FCHV 5, 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 Toyota FCHV 5 (353 Nm) has 165 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (188 Nm). This means 2002 Toyota FCHV 5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2002 Toyota FCHV 5 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. 2002 Toyota FCHV 5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata 2002 Toyota FCHV 5
Make Mazda Toyota
Model MX-5 Miata FCHV 5
Year Released 2008 2002
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1999 cc 2981 cc
Horse Power 159 HP 190 HP
Engine RPM 6700 RPM 5300 RPM
Torque 188 Nm 353 Nm
Top Speed 210 km/hour 150 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1170 kg 1701 kg
Vehicle Length 4000 mm 2720 mm
Wheelbase Size 2340 mm 2860 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 50 L 60 L