1997 Jeep Wrangler vs. 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata

To start off, 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Jeep Wrangler. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Jeep Wrangler would be higher. At 2,499 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Jeep Wrangler is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Jeep Wrangler (114 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (110 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Jeep Wrangler should accelerate faster than 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Jeep Wrangler weights approximately 370 kg more than 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1997 Jeep Wrangler is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Jeep Wrangler will offer significantly more control. 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 Jeep Wrangler (280 Nm) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (161 Nm). This means 1997 Jeep Wrangler will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata.

Compare all specifications:

1997 Jeep Wrangler 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata
Make Jeep Mazda
Model Wrangler MX-5 Miata
Year Released 1997 2000
Body Type SUV Convertible
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2499 cc 1798 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 114 HP 110 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 280 Nm 161 Nm
Engine Bore Size 92.1 mm 83.1 mm
Engine Stroke Size 94 mm 85.1 mm
Drive Type 4WD Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 2 seats
Vehicle Weight 1450 kg 1080 kg
Vehicle Length 3890 mm 3950 mm
Vehicle Width 1700 mm 1680 mm
Vehicle Height 1790 mm 1230 mm
Wheelbase Size 2380 mm 2270 mm