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Hyundai Elantra N vs Mazda MX-5 Miata - Differences and prices compared

Compare performance (276 HP vs 181 HP), trunk space and price (34,400 $ vs 29,000 $ ) at a glance. See which model fits your needs and budget better – Hyundai Elantra N or Mazda MX-5 Miata?

Hyundai Elantra N vs Mazda MX-5 Miata: Key differences

Hyundai Elantra N

  • visibly more power
  • considerably more trunk space

Mazda MX-5 Miata

  • slightly cheaper
  • a bit more efficient
  • noticeably lighter
Elantra N

Two very different recipes for automotive fun

The Hyundai Elantra N and the Mazda MX-5 Miata walk into the same comparison ring with very different agendas: one arrives as a brash, track-minded compact with extra practicality, the other as a charming, short-wheelbase roadster built around pure driving joy. Both wear personality on their sleeves — one a confident, full-bodied statement, the other a wink and a grin every time you drop the top. If you like cars that have a clear reason for being, these two make the choice entertaining rather than dull.

MX-5 Miata

Attitude: measured menace vs. lightweight mischief

The Elantra N trades subtlety for presence — it feels like something that prefers fast back roads and can swallow the morning commute without losing attitude. The MX-5 Miata is all about lightness and immediacy: it asks that you engage, grin, and forgive the compromises that come with a tiny, two-seater convertible. One declares intent with stance and sound, the other seduces with balance and a simple promise: driving should feel like a small celebration.

How they slot into daily life

When the calendar is full of carpools, errands, and weekend projects, the Elantra N is the pragmatic show pony that still lets you enjoy spirited driving without remaking your life around it. The Mazda MX-5 Miata thrives in tighter roles — city runs, solo escapes, and those two-hour drives where the road itself is the prize; bring luggage and friends and you’ll feel the trade-offs. Both are usable daily, but they ask for different compromises: space and flexibility versus intimacy and engagement.

Buying it for the image — or the feeling

Choose the Elantra N if you want an enthusiast’s badge that’s also sensible: it’s the car that says “I know how to have fun” while still handling grocery lists and backseat passengers without drama. Pick the MX-5 Miata if you’re after a driving soulmate — small, stylish, and unmistakably passionate — the sort of car that reinforces a weekend-first, live-for-the-drive persona. The decisions here are emotional as much as rational; one promises capability with bite, the other promises immediacy and charm.

If what matters to you is practical performance and everyday flexibility

If what matters to you is getting a genuinely sporty feel without abandoning practicality, the Hyundai Elantra N fits that brief — it’s aimed at people who want engaging dynamics but also a sensible daily companion. You’ll appreciate the room to bring passengers, the ability to load a weekend’s worth of gear, and the attitude that still behaves during the week. It’s the choice for drivers who want a two-faced car: efficient in the city, keen on the twisties.

If what matters to you is pure driving joy and stylish expression

If what matters to you is a car that shrinks the world down to steering, revs, and open-air smiles, the Mazda MX-5 Miata speaks directly to that craving — it’s for the driver who values connection over capacity and looks over numbers. Expect a taut, engaging experience that rewards short blasts and sunny escapes, and a design that signals enthusiasm without shouting. Read on to see how the character and the numbers line up when we put them side by side.

Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

Elantra N

Costs and Efficiency:

Price and efficiency are often the first things buyers look at. Here it becomes clear which model has the long-term edge – whether at the pump, the plug, or in purchase price.

Mazda MX-5 Miata is slightly cheaper – starting at 29,000 $ , while the Hyundai Elantra N costs 34,400 $ . That’s a price difference of around 5,365 $.

When it comes to city fuel economy, the Mazda MX-5 Miata performs a bit better – achieving 26 mpg, compared to 21 mpg for the Hyundai Elantra N. That’s a difference of about 5 mpg.

MX-5 Miata

Engine and Performance:

Under the bonnet, it becomes clear which model is tuned for sportiness and which one takes the lead when you hit the accelerator.

When it comes to engine power, the Hyundai Elantra N offers visibly more power – delivering 276 HP compared to 181 HP. That’s roughly 95 HP more horsepower.

There’s also a difference in torque: the Hyundai Elantra N delivers considerably more torque with 289 lb-ft compared to 151 lb-ft. That’s about 138 lb-ft more.

Space and Everyday Use:

Cabin size, boot volume and payload all play a role in everyday practicality. Here, comfort and flexibility make the difference.

Seats: Hyundai Elantra N offers more seats – 5 vs 2.

In terms of curb weight, Mazda MX-5 Miata is noticeably lighter – 2,341 lbs compared to 3,186 lbs. The difference is around 845 lbs.

In terms of cargo space, the Hyundai Elantra N offers considerably more room – 14.2 cu. ft. compared to 4.6 cu. ft.. That’s a difference of about 9.6 cu. ft..

Who wins the race in the data check?

The Hyundai Elantra N stands well ahead of its rival in the objective data comparison.
This result only shows which model scores more points on paper – not which of the two cars feels right for you.

from $34,400
Elantra N

Hyundai Elantra N

  • Engine Type : Gasoline
  • Transmission : Manual, Automatic
  • Drive Type : Front Wheel
  • Power HP : 276 HP
Hyundai Elantra N
Mazda MX-5 Miata

Costs and Consumption

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Engine and Performance

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Dimensions and Body

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General

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Hyundai Elantra N

The Hyundai Elantra N stands out in the compact sedan segment with its sporty design and performance-oriented features that appeal to driving enthusiasts. This model is crafted to deliver an exhilarating driving experience, combining agile handling with a robust engine note that elevates its dynamic presence on the road. With its distinctive styling cues and enhanced interior comforts, the Elantra N offers a compelling choice for those who seek a blend of everyday usability and spirited performance.

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Mazda MX-5 Miata

The Mazda MX-5 Miata is a celebrated icon in the world of sports cars, known for its nimble handling and sleek design. With its lightweight structure and convertible top, it delivers an exhilarating driving experience that appeals to both enthusiasts and casual drivers alike. Over the years, it has maintained its reputation for offering pure driving pleasure at an accessible price.

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Hyundai Elantra N
Mazda MX-5 Miata

Costs and Consumption

Price
34,400 - 35,900 $
Price
29,000 - 35,200 $
FuelEconomy City
20 - 21 mpg
FuelEconomy City
26 mpg
FuelEconomy Hwy
27 - 29 MPG
FuelEconomy Hwy
34 - 35 MPG
Electric Range
-
Electric Range
-
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
Fuel tank capacity
12.4 gal
Fuel tank capacity
11.9 gal

Dimensions and Body

Body Type
Sedan
Body Type
Convertible
Seats
5
Seats
2
Doors
-
Doors
-
Curb weight
3,186 - 3,296 lbs
Curb weight
2,341 - 2,403 lbs
Trunk Volume
14.2 cu. ft.
Trunk Volume
4.6 cu. ft.
Length
184.1 in.
Length
154.1 in.
Width
71.9 in.
Width
68.3 in.
Height
55 in.
Height
48 in.

Engine and Performance

Engine Type
Gasoline
Engine Type
Gasoline
Transmission
Manual, Automatic
Transmission
Manual, Automatic
Drive Type
Front Wheel
Drive Type
Rear Wheel
Power HP
276 HP
Power HP
181 HP
Torque
289 lb-ft
Torque
151 lb-ft
Number of Cylinders
-
Number of Cylinders
-
Engine Displacement
2 L
Engine Displacement
2 L
Gears
-
Gears
-

General

Model Year
2,025
Model Year
2,024
Brand
Hyundai
Brand
Mazda
DriveDuel uses data analysis and artificial intelligence to evaluate vehicle data and create content. Content is regularly reviewed and improved. Prices shown are manufacturer suggested retail prices (MSRP). Taxes, registration fees and dealer charges are not included.