2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata (124 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3.
Because 2011 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 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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 MX-5 Miata (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 3 |
| Year Released | 2011 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 1560 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| 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 |
