2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2009 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2009 Nissan Altima 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 3,490 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Altima (270 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 146 more horse power than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 78 kg more than 2009 Nissan Altima.
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 Nissan Altima, 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 Nissan Altima (350 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 183 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan Altima 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 Nissan Altima | |
Make | Mazda | Nissan |
Model | MX-5 Miata | Altima |
Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1798 cc | 3490 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 124 HP | 270 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 167 Nm | 350 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 10.3:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1155 kg | 1077 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4830 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2780 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.3 L/100km | 10.7 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 76 L |