2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2013 Mazda 3
To start off, 2013 Mazda 3 is newer by 4 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. Both 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata and 2013 Mazda 3 are equipped with a 1,998 cc engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (158 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2013 Mazda 3. (153 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2013 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mazda 3 weights approximately 171 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, 2013 Mazda 3, 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, 2013 Mazda 3 (200 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2013 Mazda 3 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 | 2013 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 12.0:1 |
| 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 | 1207 kg | 1378 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4595 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |
