1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2011 Scion xB
To start off, 2011 Scion xB is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Scion xB is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Scion xB (158 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (116 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Scion xB should accelerate faster than 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Scion xB weights approximately 418 kg more than 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Scion xB, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2011 Scion xB (219 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (131 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2011 Scion xB will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2011 Scion xB has automatic transmission and 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Scion xB will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2011 Scion xB | |
| Make | Mazda | Scion |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | xB |
| Year Released | 1993 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 219 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 4-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 955 kg | 1373 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4249 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2601 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 53 L |
