1995 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2000 Pontiac Piranha
To start off, 2000 Pontiac Piranha is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 2,199 cc (4 cylinders), 2000 Pontiac Piranha is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Pontiac Piranha (212 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 1995 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2000 Pontiac Piranha should accelerate faster than 1995 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Pontiac Piranha weights approximately 574 kg more than 1995 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1995 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 1995 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 Pontiac Piranha, 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, 2000 Pontiac Piranha (203 Nm) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (129 Nm). This means 2000 Pontiac Piranha will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2000 Pontiac Piranha has automatic transmission and 1995 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 1995 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2000 Pontiac Piranha will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1995 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2000 Pontiac Piranha | |
Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
Model | MX-5 Miata | Piranha |
Year Released | 1995 | 2000 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2199 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 89 HP | 212 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 129 Nm | 203 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1540 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4380 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2670 mm |