Affordable sports car showdown: subaru wrx vs mazda mx-5 – price, performance, and prestige
What To Know
- Its responsive steering and agile chassis make it a joy to drive on winding roads, offering a pure and exhilarating experience.
- The Subaru WRX has an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway.
- The Mazda MX-5, with its smaller engine, has an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 26 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway.
The Subaru WRX and Mazda MX-5 are two iconic sports cars that have captured the hearts of enthusiasts worldwide. Both vehicles boast impressive performance, thrilling handling, and distinct personalities. In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the intricacies of the Subaru WRX vs. Mazda MX-5 to determine which sports car emerges victorious.
Performance
Power and Acceleration
The Subaru WRX is powered by a 2.4-liter turbocharged boxer engine that produces 268 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. It accelerates from 0-60 mph in 5.4 seconds, making it a formidable performer on the road.
The Mazda MX-5, on the other hand, features a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 181 horsepower and 151 lb-ft of torque. While its power figures are more modest, the MX-5’s lightweight construction and responsive handling make it a surprisingly quick performer, reaching 0-60 mph in 6.5 seconds.
Handling and Agility
The Subaru WRX benefits from its Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, which provides excellent traction and stability in all driving conditions. It boasts precise steering and a taut suspension that delivers a sporty and engaging driving experience.
The Mazda MX-5, renowned for its exceptional handling, features a perfect 50:50 weight distribution and a low center of gravity. Its responsive steering and agile chassis make it a joy to drive on winding roads, offering a pure and exhilarating experience.
Interior and Comfort
Space and Practicality
The Subaru WRX offers more space than the Mazda MX-5, with seating for five passengers and a spacious trunk. Its interior is well-equipped with modern amenities, including a touchscreen infotainment system and comfortable seats.
The Mazda MX-5 is a two-seater sports car with limited interior space. While it provides adequate headroom and legroom for occupants, it lacks a proper trunk and has limited storage capacity.
Design and Features
The Subaru WRX boasts a sleek and aggressive exterior design with a wide stance and muscular lines. Its interior is sporty and functional, featuring a driver-oriented cockpit and high-quality materials.
The Mazda MX-5 exudes classic sports car aesthetics with its long hood, short deck, and flowing curves. Its interior is simple and elegant, with a focus on minimalism and driver engagement.
Safety and Reliability
Safety Features
Both the Subaru WRX and Mazda MX-5 offer a comprehensive suite of safety features, including airbags, stability control, and advanced driver assistance systems. The WRX comes standard with EyeSight, Subaru’s suite of active safety technologies, which includes lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control.
Reliability
The Subaru WRX has a good reliability record, with owners reporting few major issues. The Mazda MX-5 is also known for its dependability and longevity, with many owners reporting trouble-free ownership over many years.
Value and Cost
Price
The Subaru WRX has a starting price of around $30,000, while the Mazda MX-5 starts at around $27,000. Both vehicles offer a range of trim levels and options to suit different budgets and preferences.
Fuel Economy
The Subaru WRX has an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway. The Mazda MX-5, with its smaller engine, has an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 26 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway.
In a nutshell
The Subaru WRX and Mazda MX-5 are both exceptional sports cars that offer unique driving experiences. The WRX provides a balance of performance, practicality, and safety, while the MX-5 excels in handling, agility, and affordability.
Ultimately, the best choice between the Subaru WRX vs. Mazda MX-5 depends on individual preferences and priorities. Those seeking a versatile sports car with all-wheel drive and ample space should opt for the WRX. However, enthusiasts who value pure driving pleasure, sharp handling, and classic sports car aesthetics should choose the MX-5.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which car is faster in a straight line?
A: The Subaru WRX is faster in a straight line, accelerating from 0-60 mph in 5.4 seconds compared to the MX-5’s 6.5 seconds.
Q: Which car handles better on a track?
A: The Mazda MX-5 is generally considered to have better handling on a track due to its lightweight construction, perfect weight distribution, and responsive steering.
Q: Which car is more practical for everyday use?
A: The Subaru WRX is more practical for everyday use due to its larger interior, spacious trunk, and all-wheel drive system, which provides better traction in all driving conditions.