1996 Fiat Coupe 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 Fiat Coupe. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Fiat Coupe would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (158 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1996 Fiat Coupe. (130 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1996 Fiat Coupe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Fiat Coupe weights approximately 5 kg more than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
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 Fiat Coupe, 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, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (189 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Fiat Coupe. (164 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Fiat Coupe. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata has automatic transmission and 1996 Fiat Coupe has manual transmission. 1996 Fiat Coupe will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Fiat Coupe | 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | Coupe | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 130 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 189 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 50 L |
