1997 Jeep Wrangler vs. 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 8 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 6 more horse power than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (108 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Jeep Wrangler should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Jeep Wrangler weights approximately 340 kg more than 2005 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 2005 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 @ 2000 RPM) has 146 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (134 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1997 Jeep Wrangler will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Jeep Wrangler | 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Jeep | Mazda |
| Model | Wrangler | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2005 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2499 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92.1 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2270 mm |
