2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2003 Mitsubishi Magna
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 Mitsubishi Magna. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mitsubishi Magna would be higher. At 2,351 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mitsubishi Magna is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 2003 Mitsubishi Magna. (141 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2003 Mitsubishi Magna. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mitsubishi Magna weights approximately 190 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 Mitsubishi Magna, 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 Mitsubishi Magna (206 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2003 Mitsubishi Magna will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2003 Mitsubishi Magna 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 Mitsubishi Magna will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2003 Mitsubishi Magna | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Magna |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 2351 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 86.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 100 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2730 mm |
