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. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2013 Mazda 3. (146 HP @ 6500 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 120 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 @ 4500 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (190 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 | 1997 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4595 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 8.4 L/100km | 6.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 10.7 L/100km | 10.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 55 L |
