1997 Honda Prelude vs. 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Honda Prelude. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Honda Prelude would be higher. At 2,155 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Honda Prelude is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Honda Prelude (195 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (112 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Honda Prelude should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Honda Prelude weights approximately 356 kg more than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Honda Prelude, 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, 1997 Honda Prelude (211 Nm @ 5250 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1997 Honda Prelude will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Honda Prelude | 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | Honda | Mazda |
Model | Prelude | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2155 cc | 1498 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 195 HP | 112 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 211 Nm | 124 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5250 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1381 kg | 1025 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 3960 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1680 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1240 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2270 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 50 L |