1997 Jeep Wrangler vs. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 12 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, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1997 Jeep Wrangler. (114 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1997 Jeep Wrangler. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Jeep Wrangler weights approximately 270 kg more than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 1997 Jeep Wrangler is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 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 90 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1997 Jeep Wrangler will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Jeep Wrangler | 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Jeep | Mazda |
| Model | Wrangler | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2499 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92.1 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2340 mm |
