Japan vs Japan — 2002 vs 2016
| MX-5 NB 1.8 VVT | MX-5 ND Grand Touring | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 146 hp | 181 hp |
| Torque | 123 lb-ft | 151 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,839 cc | 1,998 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 7.5 sec | 5.7 sec |
| Top Speed | 130 mph | 136 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 15.8 sec | 14.3 sec |
| Weight | 2,348 lbs | 2,332 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,265 mm | 2,310 mm |
| Length | 3,955 mm | 3,915 mm |
| Units Produced | 289,000 | — |
| Original MSRP | $22,300 | $30,560 |
| Value (Excellent) | $18,000 | $35,000 |
| Collectibility | 6/10 | 6/10 |
| Rarity | 3/10 | 3/10 |
The 2016 Mazda MX-5 ND Grand Touring emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 2002 Mazda MX-5 NB 1.8 VVT counters with better value, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.
The Mazda MX-5 lineage tells a fascinating story of automotive evolution. Comparing the 2002 Mazda MX-5 NB 1.8 VVT with the 2016 Mazda MX-5 ND Grand Touring reveals how Mazda refined and reimagined one of its most important nameplates over the years. The 2016 Mazda MX-5 ND Grand Touring holds a clear advantage in raw power with 181 hp compared to 146 hp, a 35-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Mazda MX-5 uses a Inline-4 DOHC displacing 1,839 cc, while the Mazda MX-5 relies on a Inline-4 DOHC 16V with 1,998 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 2016 Mazda MX-5 ND Grand Touring edges ahead at 5.7 seconds versus 7.5 seconds. On the collector market, the 2016 Mazda MX-5 ND Grand Touring commands a significant premium over the 2002 Mazda MX-5 NB 1.8 VVT, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.