2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2011 Kia Forte
To start off, 2011 Kia Forte 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Kia Forte is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (164 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2011 Kia Forte. (156 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2011 Kia Forte.
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 Kia Forte, 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 Kia Forte (195 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (140 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2011 Kia Forte 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 | 2011 Kia Forte | |
| Make | Mazda | Kia |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Forte |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 164 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4481 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1765 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2649 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 8.7 L/100km | 7.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 10.7 L/100km | 9.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 52 L |
