2009 Mazda 6 vs. 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2009 Mazda 6 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 2,183 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 6 (182 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (139 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 6 weights approximately 430 kg more than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 6, 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 6 (400 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 232 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (168 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 6 | 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 6 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2183 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 16.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 218 km/hour | 205 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.3 seconds | 8.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1570 kg | 1140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.6 L/100km | 8.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 50 L |
