2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. Its Competition

2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata PRHT
Nelson Ireson Nelson Ireson Senior Editor

There are essentially no other lightweight, relatively low-power roadsters left on the market, at least not in traditional front-engine, rear-drive layout.

The 2012 MINI Cooper Convertible offers somewhat similar performance, and is even more powerful in turbocharged form, however.

Nissan's 370Z is almost into grand touring size and performance, without the light, nimble feel of the MX-5, but with much more power and speed.

Porsche's Boxster is an excellent performer, and even better on the odd track day, but will cost about twice as much as the MX-5.

2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata PRHT2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata
Browse Used Listings		2012 Nissan 370Z coupe2012 Nissan 370Z
Browse Used Listings		2012 Porsche Boxster2012 Porsche Boxster
Browse Used Listings
Quick Specs
7.2
The 2012 Mazda MX-5 is a true sports roadster with great handling and fun at any speed, and more practical than you might think.
8.2
Performance per dollar, the 2012 Nissan 370Z is a bargain, and it's quick enough in absolute terms to reach toward the domain of much more expensive sports cars.
9.0
Stylish, fun, and capable, the 2012 Porsche Boxster is one of the best roadsters around.
MSRP From  
$23,470$32,280$48,100
Gas Mileage  
21 MPG City / 28 MPG Hwy18 MPG City / 26 MPG Hwy19 MPG City / 27 MPG Hwy
Engine  
Gas I4Gas V6Gas Flat-6
EPA Class  
Two SeaterTwo-SeaterTwo-Seater
Style Name  
2-Door Convertible Manual Sport2-Door Coupe Manual2-Door Roadster
Drivetrain  
Rear Wheel DriveRear Wheel DriveRear-Wheel Drive
Passenger Capacity  
222
Passenger Doors  
N/AN/AN/A
Body Style  
2 Door Convertible2 Door CoupeConvertible
Transmission  
Manual w/ODManual w/ODManual
Detailed Spec Comparison
 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2012 Nissan 370Z2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2012 Porsche Boxster