1996 Mitsubishi Galant vs. 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mitsubishi Galant. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mitsubishi Galant would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1996 Mitsubishi Galant. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1996 Mitsubishi Galant. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mitsubishi Galant weights approximately 34 kg more than 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2011 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 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Mitsubishi Galant, 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, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mitsubishi Galant. (161 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mitsubishi Galant.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mitsubishi Galant | 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Mazda |
| Model | Galant | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1832 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 161 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1210 kg | 1176 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 3995 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1255 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2329 mm |
