1994 Mazda Midge vs. 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Mazda Midge. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Mazda Midge would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1994 Mazda Midge. (104 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1994 Mazda Midge. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 89 kg more than 1994 Mazda Midge. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 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 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1994 Mazda Midge, 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, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Mazda Midge. (156 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Mazda Midge. 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata has automatic transmission and 1994 Mazda Midge has manual transmission. 1994 Mazda Midge will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 Mazda Midge | 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | Midge | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1994 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 156 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1050 kg | 1139 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 3995 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1245 mm |
