2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2003 Holden Zafira
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Holden Zafira. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Holden Zafira would be higher. At 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Holden Zafira is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2003 Holden Zafira. (146 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2003 Holden Zafira. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Holden Zafira weights approximately 280 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, 2003 Holden Zafira, 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, 2003 Holden Zafira (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2003 Holden Zafira will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2003 Holden Zafira 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. 2003 Holden Zafira will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2003 Holden Zafira | |
| Make | Mazda | Holden |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Zafira |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 2198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1640 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2700 mm |
