2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2011 Honda Element
To start off, 2011 Honda Element is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Honda Element is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Honda Element (166 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (158 HP @ 6700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Honda Element should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Honda Element weights approximately 451 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, 2011 Honda Element, 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, 2011 Honda Element (218 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2011 Honda Element will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2011 Honda Element 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. 2011 Honda Element will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2011 Honda Element | |
| Make | Mazda | Honda |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Element |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Crossover |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 166 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1155 kg | 1606 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4315 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1819 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1788 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2576 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 60 L |
