New Miata vs. Used Aston Martin DB9: Which $40,000 Sports Car is Better?

Comparing the Miata and Aston Martin DB9

• 🚗 The video pits a new 2025 Mazda MX5 RF (Miata) against a used Aston Martin DB9, both priced around $40,000.
• 💡 The Miata is praised for its lightweight, hydraulic steering, and engaging driving dynamics, embodying the 'horse and rider as one' philosophy.
• 🚀 The Aston Martin DB9, a third-generation model, boasts a powerful 6L V12 engine and a luxurious interior, offering a different kind of exotic car experience.

Performance and Driving Experience

• 💨 The Miata, with 180 horsepower and under 2500 lbs, offers a nimble, go-kart-like feel, making every road fun.
• 🔊 The DB9, weighing around 4000 lbs but with over 500 horsepower, delivers a thrilling V12 soundtrack and impressive stopping power.
• 🏁 Both cars are described as fun weekend cruisers rather than track-focused machines, with the Miata excelling in agility and the DB9 in grand touring comfort.

Interior and Practicality

• 🛋️ The Miata's interior is lauded for its simplicity and quality, though its small size is a drawback for larger drivers.
• 🔑 The DB9 features a more luxurious interior, starting with its unique 'emotional control unit' key.
• 🧳 Neither car is ideal for extensive road trips, but the Aston Martin DB9 proved slightly more practical in a test fitting luggage and golf clubs.

Maintenance and Depreciation

• 🔧 Maintenance costs for the Miata are significantly lower, with an oil change costing $80-$140 compared to $400-$600 for the DB9.
• 💸 Aston Martin parts can sometimes be cross-referenced with Ford parts, potentially reducing repair costs, though major components like clutches can still be very expensive ($4,000 vs. $1,000-$1,800 for the Miata).
• 📉 The Aston Martin DB9 has already undergone its steepest depreciation, making its current value more stable than a new Miata, which loses 15-20% immediately.

Coolness Factor and Expert Opinion

• ✨ The DB9 is recognized for its initial 'dream car' status and its role in reviving the Aston Martin brand, earning it the coolness factor point.
• 🚗 Bob Hall, the creator of the original NA Miata, expressed a preference for the Miata over the Aston Martin, even stating he'd buy two Miatas if he could afford a new Aston.

Final Verdict

• 🏆 After scoring points in driving dynamics, interior, practicality, maintenance, depreciation, and coolness, the final fun factor challenge resulted in a tie.
• 👍 Both cars offer a unique and enjoyable driving experience for their price point, with the Miata being the accessible, fun roadster and the DB9 offering a more exotic, powerful grand touring experience.