2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2013 Toyota Matrix
To start off, 2013 Toyota Matrix is newer by 5 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), 2013 Toyota Matrix is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (158 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2013 Toyota Matrix. (156 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2013 Toyota Matrix. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Toyota Matrix weights approximately 286 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, 2013 Toyota Matrix, 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, 2013 Toyota Matrix (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2013 Toyota Matrix 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 | 2013 Toyota Matrix | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Matrix |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| 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 | 158 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 96 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1194 kg | 1480 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4365 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1765 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 50 L |
