2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (158 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 13 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3. 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, 2009 Mazda 3, 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 (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3. 2009 Mazda 3 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. 2009 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | MX-5 Miata | 3 |
Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1596 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 158 HP | 104 HP |
Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 188 Nm | 145 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 78 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 83.6 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Top Speed | 210 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.9 seconds | 11 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1098 kg | 1085 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4500 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2650 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.2 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |