2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2009 Kia Forte
To start off, 2009 Kia Forte is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Kia Forte is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (159 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2009 Kia Forte. (156 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2009 Kia Forte. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Kia Forte weights approximately 73 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, 2009 Kia Forte, 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, 2009 Kia Forte (195 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Forte 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 | 2009 Kia Forte | |
| Make | Mazda | Kia |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Forte |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 159 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1155 kg | 1228 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4529 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1775 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1461 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2649 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 52 L |
