1996 Mazda RX-01 vs. 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mazda RX-01. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda RX-01 would be higher. At 2,615 cc, 1996 Mazda RX-01 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mazda RX-01 (217 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (142 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mazda RX-01 should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 571 kg more than 1996 Mazda RX-01.
Because 2005 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 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Mazda RX-01, 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 Mazda RX-01 (220 Nm @ 6000 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (168 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1996 Mazda RX-01 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mazda RX-01 | 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | RX-01 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2615 cc | 1839 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 142 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 1671 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 50 L |
