2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2011 Mazda 3
To start off, 2011 Mazda 3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 2,184 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2010 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 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Mazda 3 (360 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 193 more torque (in Nm) than 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2011 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | MX-5 Miata | 3 |
Year Released | 2010 | 2011 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1798 cc | 2184 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 124 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Torque | 167 Nm | 360 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | 6-speed manual | 5-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Length | 3995 mm | 4590 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1755 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1245 mm | 1471 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2329 mm | 2639 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 55 L |