2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2012 Scion iQ
To start off, 2012 Scion iQ 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 2012 Scion iQ. (94 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2012 Scion iQ. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 160 kg more than 2012 Scion iQ. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 Scion iQ, 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 (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Scion iQ. (121 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Scion iQ.
Compare all specifications:
| 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2012 Scion iQ | |
| Make | Mazda | Scion |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | iQ |
| Year Released | 2011 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2000 cc | 1329 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 121 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 965 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3995 mm | 3051 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1245 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2329 mm | 2000 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 8.4 L/100km | 6.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 10.7 L/100km | 6.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 32 L |
