2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2002 Honda Z
To start off, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Honda Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Honda Z would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 2002 Honda Z. (51 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2002 Honda Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 179 kg more than 2002 Honda Z. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Honda Z is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Honda Z will offer significantly more control. 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, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Honda Z. (60 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Honda Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2002 Honda Z | |
| Make | Mazda | Honda |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Z |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2000 cc | 656 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 51 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 60 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | 6-speed automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1139 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3995 mm | 3410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1245 mm | 1680 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2329 mm | 2370 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 35 L |
