2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2003 Nissan Xterra
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 Nissan Xterra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Nissan Xterra would be higher. At 2,393 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Nissan Xterra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (158 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 2003 Nissan Xterra. (141 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2003 Nissan Xterra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Nissan Xterra weights approximately 425 kg more than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2003 Nissan Xterra is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Nissan Xterra will offer significantly more control. 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 Nissan Xterra (209 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2003 Nissan Xterra 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 | 2003 Nissan Xterra | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Xterra |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 2393 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 209 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 96 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1155 kg | 1580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1890 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2660 mm |
