2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2011 Mazda 5
To start off, 2011 Mazda 5 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 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda 5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (159 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2011 Mazda 5. (157 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2011 Mazda 5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mazda 5 weights approximately 380 kg more than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
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 Mazda 5, 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 Mazda 5 (221 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda 5 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 Mazda 5 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 5 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 159 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 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 | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4585 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1615 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2751 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 60 L |
