2009 Honda Element vs. 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2009 Honda Element is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 2,354 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Honda Element is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Honda Element (166 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Honda Element should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2006 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 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Honda Element, 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 Honda Element (218 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 Honda Element will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Honda Element | 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Honda | Mazda |
| Model | Element | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Crossover | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2354 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 166 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 188 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
