2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2009 Nissan Versa

To start off, 2009 Nissan Versa 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 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (166 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 2009 Nissan Versa. (120 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2009 Nissan Versa. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Nissan Versa weights approximately 113 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 Nissan Versa, 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 (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Nissan Versa. (127 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Nissan Versa.

Compare all specifications:

2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata 2009 Nissan Versa
Make Mazda Nissan
Model MX-5 Miata Versa
Year Released 2008 2009
Body Type Convertible Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1999 cc 1799 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 166 HP 120 HP
Engine RPM 6700 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 190 Nm 127 Nm
Torque RPM 5000 RPM 4800 RPM
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1329 kg 1442 kg
Vehicle Length 4000 mm 4480 mm
Vehicle Width 1730 mm 1700 mm
Vehicle Height 1250 mm 1540 mm
Wheelbase Size 2340 mm 2610 mm
Fuel Consumption Highway 8.9 L/100km 7.6 L/100km
Fuel Consumption City 10.8 L/100km 9.1 L/100km
Fuel Consumption Overall 9.1 L/100km 8.4 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 48 L 50 L