2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2008 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 3 weights approximately 75 kg more than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2008 Mazda 3, 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, 2008 Mazda 3 (182 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 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 | 2008 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | MX-5 Miata | 3 |
Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1798 cc | 1998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 124 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 167 Nm | 182 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 87.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 83.1 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1225 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4500 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1760 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2650 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 7 L/100km | 8.9 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |