2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2008 Mazda CX-7
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 CX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mazda CX-7 would be higher. At 2,258 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda CX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda CX-7 (244 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (167 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda CX-7 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda CX-7 weights approximately 66 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 CX-7, 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 CX-7 (350 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 159 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (191 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda CX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2008 Mazda CX-7 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. 2008 Mazda CX-7 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2008 Mazda CX-7 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | CX-7 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2258 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 244 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 191 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 1191 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1650 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 8.4 L/100km | 10.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.2 L/100km | 13.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.1 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 69 L |
