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Mazda MX-5 Miata RF vs Subaru WRX - Differences and prices compared

Compare performance (181 HP vs 271 HP), trunk space and price (37,000 $ vs 32,700 $ ) at a glance. See which model fits your needs and budget better – Mazda MX-5 Miata RF or Subaru WRX?

Mazda MX-5 Miata RF vs Subaru WRX: Key differences

Mazda MX-5 Miata RF

  • markedly more efficient
  • noticeably lighter

Subaru WRX

  • slightly cheaper
  • noticeably more power
  • substantially more trunk space

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

MX-5 Miata RF

Costs and Efficiency:

Price and efficiency are key factors when choosing a car – and this is often where the real differences emerge.

Subaru WRX is slightly cheaper – starting at 32,700 $ , while the Mazda MX-5 Miata RF costs 37,000 $ . That’s a price difference of around 4,275 $.

When it comes to city fuel economy, the Mazda MX-5 Miata RF performs markedly better – achieving 26 mpg, compared to 19 mpg for the Subaru WRX. That’s a difference of about 7 mpg.

WRX

Engine and Performance:

Power, torque and acceleration say a lot about how a car feels on the road. This is where you see which model delivers more driving dynamics.

When it comes to engine power, the Subaru WRX offers noticeably more power – delivering 271 HP compared to 181 HP. That’s roughly 90 HP more horsepower.

There’s also a difference in torque: the Subaru WRX delivers clearly more torque with 258 lb-ft compared to 151 lb-ft. That’s about 107 lb-ft more.

MX-5 Miata RF

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: Subaru WRX offers more seats – 5 vs 2.

In terms of curb weight, Mazda MX-5 Miata RF is noticeably lighter – 2,452 lbs compared to 3,329 lbs. The difference is around 877 lbs.

In terms of cargo space, the Subaru WRX offers substantially more room – 12.5 cu. ft. compared to 4.5 cu. ft.. That’s a difference of about 8 cu. ft..

Who wins the race in the data check?

The Subaru WRX 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 $32,700
WRX

Subaru WRX

  • Engine Type : Gasoline
  • Transmission : Manual, Automatic
  • Drive Type : All Wheel
  • Power HP : 271 HP
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Costs and Consumption
View detailed analysis

Engine and Performance
View detailed analysis

Dimensions and Body
View detailed analysis

General
View detailed analysis

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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Reviews Mazda MX-5 Miata RF

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Subaru WRX

The Subaru WRX is a high-performance sedan renowned for its rally-inspired prowess and distinctive styling. It offers a thrilling driving experience, characterized by responsive handling and robust power delivery. The vehicle's all-wheel-drive system and sport-tuned suspension make it a favorite amongst enthusiasts seeking agility and grip on various road conditions.

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Reviews Subaru WRX

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Costs and Consumption
Price
37,000 - 40,200 $
Price
32,700 - 44,200 $
FuelEconomy City
26 mpg
FuelEconomy City
18 - 19 mpg
FuelEconomy Hwy
34 - 35 MPG
FuelEconomy Hwy
25 - 26 MPG
Electric Range
-
Electric Range
-
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
Fuel tank capacity
11.9 gal
Fuel tank capacity
16.6 gal

Dimensions and Body
Body Type
Convertible
Body Type
Sedan
Seats
2
Seats
5
Doors
-
Doors
-
Curb weight
2,452 - 2,496 lbs
Curb weight
3,329 - 3,569 lbs
Trunk Volume
4.5 cu. ft.
Trunk Volume
12.5 cu. ft.
Length
154.1 in.
Length
183.8 in.
Width
68.3 in.
Width
71.9 in.
Height
49 in.
Height
57 in.

Engine and Performance
Engine Type
Gasoline
Engine Type
Gasoline
Transmission
Manual, Automatic
Transmission
Manual, Automatic
Drive Type
Rear Wheel
Drive Type
All Wheel
Power HP
181 HP
Power HP
271 HP
Torque
151 lb-ft
Torque
258 lb-ft
Number of Cylinders
-
Number of Cylinders
-
Engine Displacement
2 L
Engine Displacement
2.4 L
Gears
-
Gears
-

General
Model Year
2,024
Model Year
2,024
Brand
Mazda
Brand
Subaru
How much does the Mazda MX-5 Miata RF cost?

Starting from 37,000 $.

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.