1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1999 Pontiac Montana
To start off, 1999 Pontiac Montana is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 3,392 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Pontiac Montana is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Pontiac Montana (185 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Pontiac Montana should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Pontiac Montana weights approximately 755 kg more than 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Pontiac Montana, 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, 1999 Pontiac Montana (285 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (129 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1999 Pontiac Montana will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 1999 Pontiac Montana has automatic transmission and 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Pontiac Montana will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1999 Pontiac Montana | |
Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
Model | MX-5 Miata | Montana |
Year Released | 1996 | 1999 |
Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1596 cc | 3392 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 89 HP | 185 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 129 Nm | 285 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 7 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1720 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4760 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1850 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1720 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2850 mm |