2012 Nissan Versa vs. 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2012 Nissan Versa 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 45 more horse power than 2012 Nissan Versa. (122 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2012 Nissan Versa. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Nissan Versa weights approximately 126 kg more than 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
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 Nissan Versa, 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 18 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Nissan Versa. (172 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Nissan Versa.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Nissan Versa | 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Nissan | Mazda |
| Model | Versa | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1800 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 122 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 172 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | CVT | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1251 kg | 1125 kg |
| Fuel Consumption | 6.9 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 8.4 L/100km | 10.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 48 L |
