1996 Chrysler Cirrus vs. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Chrysler Cirrus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Chrysler Cirrus would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Chrysler Cirrus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Chrysler Cirrus (168 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (158 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Chrysler Cirrus should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Chrysler Cirrus weights approximately 259 kg more than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Chrysler Cirrus, 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, 1996 Chrysler Cirrus (230 Nm @ 4350 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (189 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1996 Chrysler Cirrus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Chrysler Cirrus | 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mazda |
| Model | Cirrus | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 189 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4350 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.5 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1434 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 50 L |
