2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2012 Honda CR-V
To start off, 2012 Honda CR-V is newer by 4 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 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Honda CR-V is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Honda CR-V (184 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (159 HP @ 6700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Honda CR-V should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Honda CR-V weights approximately 330 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, 2012 Honda CR-V, 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, 2012 Honda CR-V (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2012 Honda CR-V will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2012 Honda CR-V 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. 2012 Honda CR-V will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2012 Honda CR-V | |
| Make | Mazda | Honda |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | CR-V |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 159 HP | 184 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1500 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1819 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1645 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 58 L |
