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2024 Subaru BRZ vs Mazda MX-5: What To Buy?
The Subaru BRZ embodies sports car aspirations lightweight, agile, and affordable, sharing its essence with the Toyota GR86. Its 228-hp 2.4L flat-four engine and manual transmission create a spirited driving experience, complemented by practical features like rear seats and ample trunk space. While not luxurious, the driver-focused interior integrates modern technology for enjoyable daily drives. On the other hand, Mazda’s MX-5 Miata, though compact, delivers big on fun. Its lightweight and tuned chassis make it a joy on twisty roads. With an 181-hp four-cylinder engine and a well-matched six-speed manual, the Miata excels in driving pleasure. It’s available in soft top or retractable hardtop (RF) variants, but its practicality as a daily driver is compromised by its snug cabin and limited storage.
| Subaru BRZ | Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Dimensions | 167.9 in x 69.9 in x 51.6 in | 154.1 in x 68.3 in x 48.6 in |
| Engine | 2.4L NA flat-4 | 2.0L DOHC inline-4 |
| Horsepower | 228 hp | 181 hp |
| Torque | 184 lb-ft | 151 lb-ft |
| 0-60 MPH | 5.4 sec | 5.7 sec |
| 0-100 MPH | 13.6 sec | 16.1 sec |
| Top-Speed | 140 mph | 140 mph |
Subaru BRZ
Engine & Performance
The BRZ packs a naturally aspirated 2.4L flat-four engine, churning out 228 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque. Power is sent to the rear wheels through a choice of either a six-speed manual or an optional six-speed automatic transmission. The ride quality leans towards the firm side, adding to the car’s playful nature. Each model comes with a standard limited-slip rear differential. With the Premium variant sporting 17-inch wheels, and the higher-performance Limited rocking 18 inches. The top-tier tS trim takes it up a notch with a specially tuned suspension system and upgraded brakes. Contributing to an overall enhancement in road manners.
Price & Mileage
The Subaru BRZ kicks off at $31,315 for the Premium, reaching $36,465 for the top-tier tS variant. Opting for the Limited, priced in between, gets you appealing additions like 18-inch aluminium wheels, summer tires, and blind-spot monitoring. According to EPA estimates, the most fuel-efficient BRZ is the automatic transmission model. Boasting 21 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway. For those who prefer the six-speed manual, the estimates are slightly lower. Coming in at 20 mpg for city driving and 27 mpg for highway cruising.
Acceleration & Features
The 2.4L engine in the BRZ shows more responsiveness compared to the previous 2.0L model. Although it doesn’t turn the BRZ into the speediest car in town. Nevertheless, it notably enhances acceleration times. In the case of the Subaru BRZ tested with the manual transmission, it hit 60 mph in just 5.4 seconds. Almost a whole second quicker than the previous-gen BRZ tS. Each BRZ is equipped with an 8.0-inch touchscreen at the centre of the dashboard. Serving as the command centre for its infotainment system. The display, fortunately, doesn’t rely solely on touch inputs. It includes physical knobs for volume and tuning functions, along with several hard buttons. The system comes standard with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and access to SiriusXM satellite radio.
Mazda MX-5 Miata
Engine & Performance
The Miata’s engine is keen to rev, providing ample power for an exciting acceleration experience. Its straightforward manual transmission not only makes shifting a breeze but also urges drivers to push it to the limits. Even the automatic option impresses with swift shifts and a sporty feel. While Miatas generally offer a firm ride, especially the Club variant with its stiffer shocks and springs, none of them handles poorly. However, on bumpy roads, Miatas can feel a bit jumpy. These characteristics make the Miata lineup a delightful choice for drivers seeking an energetic and engaging ride.
Price & Mileage
Anticipated updates to the Miata suggest that Mazda might maintain its current trim levels. However, there’s a likelihood of a price hike, exceeding the $30,000 mark for the first time. Despite its petite size, the 2.0L engine achieves commendable EPA fuel efficiency, reaching up to 26 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway. This potential increase in cost is noteworthy, considering the modest dimensions of the car.
Acceleration & Features
Zooming from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 5.7 seconds in tests, the soft-top model outpaces its slightly heavier hardtop RF counterpart, which clocked in at 5.8 seconds. The Miata flaunts an 8.8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, with user-friendly controls like a convenient knob and hard buttons on the center console. Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto are standard in every Miata, ensuring seamless connectivity. For an audio upgrade, there’s the option of a Bose stereo with speakers cleverly embedded in the Miata’s headrests.