2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2002 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Nissan Altima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Nissan Altima would be higher. At 2,488 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Nissan Altima (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (167 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Nissan Altima weights approximately 165 kg more than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Nissan Altima, 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, 2002 Nissan Altima (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (191 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2002 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2002 Nissan Altima has automatic transmission and 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Nissan Altima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2002 Nissan Altima | |
Make | Mazda | Nissan |
Model | MX-5 Miata | Altima |
Year Released | 2009 | 2002 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2488 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 167 HP | 180 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 191 Nm | 230 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 1290 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4870 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2810 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 73 L |