2009 Mazda 3 vs. 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 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 96 kg more than 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2012 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 2012 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, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3. 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata has automatic transmission and 2009 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2009 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 3 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1235 kg | 1139 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 3995 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1245 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2329 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 48 L |
