2021 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2021 Nissan Leaf

The 2021 Nissan Leaf is an economical car with an impressive engine, the newest safety system, and excellent tech. But how does it stack up against the 2021 Mazda MX-5 Miata, a sporty car with ample performance of its own, an outstanding manual transmission and affordable price tag?

Design & Style

The Mazda MX-5 Miata comes in the form of a convertible with two seats and the option of a hard or soft top. It has a smooth exterior with elegant curves, and the hood is extended with a shortened trunk. Like most sports cars, it rides low near the ground, placing drivers at the door handle eye level of other automobiles. Both its weight balance and ride height are perfect, and while moving the air will flow around the undulating curves.

The 2021 Nissan Leaf also has excellent aesthetics. It comes in the form of hatchback with a design that designates it as being an electric vehicle. It has a grille in front which is shaped like the letter V with internal trim that is blacked out. Its cabin is largely conventional, with a central console, shifter and dash that is upright.

Technology & Safety

The Nissan Leaf has received a 5 star safety rating courtesy of the NHTSA. It has standardized emergency automated brakes along with driver assistance, lane control, blind area monitoring, and the ability to detect lane switches. Comforts within its cabin include cloth seats, eight inch displays, compatibility with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay and a camera with surround view.

The Mazda MX-5 Miata has the same safety functions found in the Nissan, including standardized emergency automated brakes, lane departure notifications and the ability to monitor blind spots. Those that purchase the Grand Touring edition will get high beam headlights which are automated, and perks within its cabin include keyless entry, a Bose sound system with nine speakers, and seats covered in nappa leather which is heated.

Performance

The Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with an inline 4, 2 liter engine that can generate 181 horsepower, which enables it to accelerate from zero to sixty in about six seconds. It has a manual six speed transmission. The Nissan Leaf is outfitted with a lithium ion battery which is 40kwh and wedded to an electric motor which is capable of generating 147 horsepower with 187 pounds of torque.

The Bottom Line

Aside from the fact that the Mazda has a significant performance advantage over the Nissan, the Leaf has a rudimentary design that is limited to all wheel drive, and this combined with its Spartan cabin makes the MX-5 Miata the winner.

Ready to Schedule a 2021 Mazda MX-5 Miata Test Drive Today?

Do you want to discover more about this Mazda car model can do on the road? Come and visit us at Riley Mazda today! Our dedicated team of customer service representatives will assist you in meeting all your car purchasing, financing, and servicing needs. Call us today and book an appointment for your 2021 Mazda MX-5 Miata test drive now!