2009 Mazda 3 vs. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 1 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 2,259 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (166 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (156 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 359 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, 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 (203 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Mazda 3 | 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | 3 | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2259 cc | 1998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 156 HP | 166 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6700 RPM |
Torque | 203 Nm | 190 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 87.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 83.1 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 10.8:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1191 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4000 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1250 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2340 mm |
Fuel Consumption | 8.1 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.4 L/100km | 8.9 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 48 L |