2009 Mazda 3 vs. 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata

To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,998 cc, 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (145 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (129 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 252 kg more than 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1994 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 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3, 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 Mazda 3 (181 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (152 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata.

Compare all specifications:

2009 Mazda 3 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata
Make Mazda Mazda
Model 3 MX-5 Miata
Year Released 2009 1994
Body Type Hatchback Convertible
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1998 cc 1840 cc
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 145 HP 129 HP
Engine RPM 6500 RPM 6500 RPM
Torque 181 Nm 152 Nm
Torque RPM 4500 RPM 5000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 87.5 mm 83 mm
Engine Stroke Size 83.1 mm 85 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.0:1 9.0:1
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1242 kg 990 kg
Vehicle Length 4500 mm 3960 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1680 mm
Vehicle Height 1470 mm 1240 mm
Wheelbase Size 2650 mm 2270 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 55 L 48 L


 

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