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Lexus ES vs Mazda MX-5 Miata - Differences and prices compared

Compare performance (302 HP vs 181 HP), trunk space and price (42,000 $ vs 29,000 $ ) at a glance. See which model fits your needs and budget better – Lexus ES or Mazda MX-5 Miata?

Lexus ES vs Mazda MX-5 Miata: Key differences

Lexus ES

  • substantially more power
  • clearly more efficient
  • significantly more trunk space
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Mazda MX-5 Miata

  • considerably cheaper
  • considerably lighter
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Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

ES

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 considerably cheaper – starting at 29,000 $ , while the Lexus ES costs 42,000 $ . That’s a price difference of around 13,055 $.

When it comes to city fuel economy, the Lexus ES performs clearly better – achieving 43 mpg, compared to 26 mpg for the Mazda MX-5 Miata. That’s a difference of about 17 mpg.

MX-5 Miata

Engine and Performance:

Power, torque and acceleration are the classic benchmarks for car enthusiasts – and here, some clear differences start to show.

When it comes to engine power, the Lexus ES offers substantially more power – delivering 302 HP compared to 181 HP. That’s roughly 121 HP more horsepower.

There’s also a difference in torque: the Lexus ES delivers significantly more torque with 267 lb-ft compared to 151 lb-ft. That’s about 116 lb-ft more.

ES

Space and Everyday Use:

Beyond pure performance, interior space and usability matter most in daily life. This is where you see which car is more practical and versatile.

Seats: Lexus ES offers more seats – 5 vs 2.

In terms of curb weight, Mazda MX-5 Miata is considerably lighter – 2,341 lbs compared to 3,690 lbs. The difference is around 1,349 lbs.

In terms of cargo space, the Lexus ES offers significantly more room – 13.9 cu. ft. compared to 4.6 cu. ft.. That’s a difference of about 9.3 cu. ft..

Who wins the race in the data check?

The Lexus ES is clearly superior overall 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 $42,000
ES

Lexus ES

  • Engine Type : Gasoline, Hybrid
  • Transmission : Automatic
  • Drive Type : Front Wheel, All Wheel
  • Power HP : 203 - 302 HP
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View detailed analysis

Engine and Performance
View detailed analysis

Dimensions and Body
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General
View detailed analysis

Lexus ES

The Lexus ES rides like a rolling spa, with a plush cabin, hushed manners, and the kind of build quality that makes your shoulders drop the moment you shut the door. It’s not here to light up back roads, but if you want a stress-free commute, long-haul comfort, and the peace-of-mind ownership Lexus is famous for, it nails the brief with quiet confidence.

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Reviews Lexus ES

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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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Reviews Mazda MX-5 Miata

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Lexus ES
Mazda MX-5 Miata

Costs and Consumption
Price
42,000 - 52,300 $
Price
29,000 - 35,200 $
FuelEconomy City
22 - 43 mpg
FuelEconomy City
26 mpg
FuelEconomy Hwy
31 - 44 MPG
FuelEconomy Hwy
34 - 35 MPG
Electric Range
-
Electric Range
-
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
Fuel tank capacity
13.2 - 15.9 gal
Fuel tank capacity
11.9 gal

Dimensions and Body
Body Type
Sedan
Body Type
Convertible
Seats
5
Seats
2
Doors
-
Doors
-
Curb weight
3,690 - 3,737 lbs
Curb weight
2,341 - 2,403 lbs
Trunk Volume
13.9 cu. ft.
Trunk Volume
4.6 cu. ft.
Length
195.9 in.
Length
154.1 in.
Width
73.4 in.
Width
68.3 in.
Height
56 in.
Height
48 in.

Engine and Performance
Engine Type
Gasoline, Hybrid
Engine Type
Gasoline
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Manual, Automatic
Drive Type
Front Wheel, All Wheel
Drive Type
Rear Wheel
Power HP
203 - 302 HP
Power HP
181 HP
Torque
163 - 267 lb-ft
Torque
151 lb-ft
Number of Cylinders
-
Number of Cylinders
-
Engine Displacement
2.5 - 3.5 L
Engine Displacement
2 L
Gears
-
Gears
-

General
Model Year
2025
Model Year
2024
Brand
Lexus
Brand
Mazda
What is the starting MSRP for the Lexus ES?

The Lexus ES starts at 42,000 $.

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.