2009 Kia Optima vs. 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2009 Kia Optima is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 2,359 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Optima (176 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (112 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2002 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 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Kia Optima, 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 Kia Optima (229 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2009 Kia Optima has automatic transmission and 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Kia Optima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Kia Optima | 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | Kia | Mazda |
Model | Optima | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 2009 | 2002 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2359 cc | 1498 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 176 HP | 112 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 229 Nm | 124 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 3960 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1680 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1240 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2270 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 50 L |