1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2009 Pontiac Vibe
To start off, 2009 Pontiac Vibe is newer by 13 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 2,362 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Pontiac Vibe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Pontiac Vibe (158 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Pontiac Vibe should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
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, 2009 Pontiac Vibe, 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 Pontiac Vibe (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (129 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Pontiac Vibe will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2009 Pontiac Vibe | |
Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
Model | MX-5 Miata | Vibe |
Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1596 cc | 2362 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 89 HP | 158 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 129 Nm | 220 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 87.9 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 97.8 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4380 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1570 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2610 mm |