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Mazda Mazda3 Hatchback vs Mazda MX-5 Miata RF - Differences and prices compared

Compare performance (227 HP vs 181 HP), trunk space and price (25,000 $ vs 37,000 $ ) at a glance. See which model fits your needs and budget better – Mazda Mazda3 Hatchback or Mazda MX-5 Miata RF?

Mazda Mazda3 Hatchback vs Mazda MX-5 Miata RF: Key differences

Mazda Mazda3 Hatchback

  • substantially cheaper
  • noticeably more power
  • very slightly more efficient

Mazda MX-5 Miata RF

  • visibly lighter

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

Mazda3 Hatchback

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 Mazda3 Hatchback is substantially cheaper – starting at 25,000 $ , while the Mazda MX-5 Miata RF costs 37,000 $ . That’s a price difference of around 12,060 $.

When it comes to city fuel economy, the Mazda Mazda3 Hatchback performs very slightly better – achieving 27 mpg, compared to 26 mpg for the Mazda MX-5 Miata RF. That’s a difference of about 1 mpg.

MX-5 Miata RF

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 Mazda Mazda3 Hatchback offers noticeably more power – delivering 227 HP compared to 181 HP. That’s roughly 46 HP more horsepower.

There’s also a difference in torque: the Mazda Mazda3 Hatchback delivers considerably more torque with 310 lb-ft compared to 151 lb-ft. That’s about 159 lb-ft more.

Mazda3 Hatchback

Space and Everyday Use:

Whether family car or daily driver – which one offers more room, flexibility and comfort?

Seats: Mazda Mazda3 Hatchback offers more seats – 5 vs 2.

In terms of curb weight, Mazda MX-5 Miata RF is visibly lighter – 2,452 lbs compared to 3,086 lbs. The difference is around 634 lbs.

Who wins the race in the data check?

The Mazda Mazda3 Hatchback 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 $25,000
Mazda3 Hatchback

Mazda Mazda3 Hatchback

  • Engine Type : Gasoline
  • Transmission : Automatic, Manual
  • Drive Type : Front Wheel, All Wheel
  • Power HP : 191 - 227 HP
Mazda Mazda3 Hatchback
Mazda MX-5 Miata RF

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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Mazda Mazda3 Hatchback

The Mazda3 Hatchback is known for its combination of stylish design and engaging driving dynamics, making it a popular choice among compact car enthusiasts. Its sleek exterior, coupled with a high-quality interior, provides both aesthetic appeal and comfort for drivers and passengers alike. The responsive handling and smooth ride ensure an enjoyable driving experience, whether navigating urban streets or cruising on the highway.

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Mazda MX-5 Miata RF

The Mazda MX-5 Miata RF stands out with its sleek retractable fastback design, offering an exhilarating open-air driving experience at the touch of a button. Its sophisticated styling and agile performance make every journey a thrill, perfectly blending everyday usability with the excitement of a classic roadster. Inside, the Miata RF maintains a driver-focused cockpit that enhances the connection between car and driver, providing an experience that's both intuitive and engaging.

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Mazda Mazda3 Hatchback
Mazda MX-5 Miata RF

Costs and Consumption

Price
25,000 - 37,000 $
Price
37,000 - 40,200 $
FuelEconomy City
23 - 27 mpg
FuelEconomy City
26 mpg
FuelEconomy Hwy
31 - 36 MPG
FuelEconomy Hwy
34 - 35 MPG
Electric Range
-
Electric Range
-
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
Fuel tank capacity
12.7 - 13.2 gal
Fuel tank capacity
11.9 gal

Dimensions and Body

Body Type
Hatchback, i-ACTIV AWD Hatchback
Body Type
Convertible
Seats
5
Seats
2
Doors
-
Doors
-
Curb weight
3,086 - 3,397 lbs
Curb weight
2,452 - 2,496 lbs
Trunk Volume
-
Trunk Volume
4.5 cu. ft.
Length
175.6 in.
Length
154.1 in.
Width
70.7 in.
Width
68.3 in.
Height
56 in.
Height
49 in.

Engine and Performance

Engine Type
Gasoline
Engine Type
Gasoline
Transmission
Automatic, Manual
Transmission
Manual, Automatic
Drive Type
Front Wheel, All Wheel
Drive Type
Rear Wheel
Power HP
191 - 227 HP
Power HP
181 HP
Torque
186 - 310 lb-ft
Torque
151 lb-ft
Number of Cylinders
-
Number of Cylinders
-
Engine Displacement
2.5 L
Engine Displacement
2 L
Gears
-
Gears
-

General

Model Year
2,025
Model Year
2,024
Brand
Mazda
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.