2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2002 Toyota RAV4
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 Toyota RAV4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Toyota RAV4 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Toyota RAV4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 2002 Toyota RAV4. (115 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2002 Toyota RAV4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Toyota RAV4 weights approximately 210 kg more than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
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 Toyota RAV4, 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 Toyota RAV4 (250 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2002 Toyota RAV4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2002 Toyota RAV4 | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | RAV4 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 82.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 60 L |
