2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2011 Kia Optima
To start off, 2011 Kia Optima 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 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Kia Optima (200 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (158 HP @ 6700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Kia Optima weights approximately 299 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 Kia Optima, 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 Optima (252 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2011 Kia Optima 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 Optima | |
| Make | Mazda | Kia |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Optima |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| 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 | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 252 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1155 kg | 1454 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4844 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1831 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1455 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2797 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 70 L |
