2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2012 Mazda MazdaSpeed3
To start off, 2012 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 is newer by 3 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 2,300 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 (263 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (158 HP @ 6700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 weights approximately 296 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, 2012 Mazda MazdaSpeed3, 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, 2012 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 (379 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 191 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 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 | 2012 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | MX-5 Miata | MazdaSpeed3 |
Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2300 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 158 HP | 263 HP |
Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 188 Nm | 379 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 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 | 1192 kg | 1488 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4511 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1461 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2639 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 60 L |