2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2005 Mazda Marathon
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mazda Marathon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mazda Marathon would be higher. At 2,260 cc, 2005 Mazda Marathon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (158 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 2005 Mazda Marathon. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda Marathon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda Marathon weights approximately 342 kg more than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (189 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda Marathon. (174 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda Marathon. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata has automatic transmission and 2005 Mazda Marathon has manual transmission. 2005 Mazda Marathon will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2005 Mazda Marathon | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Marathon |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Van |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2260 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 189 Nm | 174 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 94 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 10 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1517 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 76 L |
