2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2003 Toyota Avensis
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 Toyota Avensis. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Toyota Avensis would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Toyota Avensis is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 2003 Toyota Avensis. (138 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2003 Toyota Avensis. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Toyota Avensis weights approximately 150 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 Toyota Avensis, 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 Toyota Avensis (197 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2003 Toyota Avensis 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 Toyota Avensis | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Avensis |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| 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 | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 197 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 86 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 60 L |
