1997 Kia Clarus 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 Kia Clarus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Kia Clarus would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (158 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1997 Kia Clarus. (114 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1997 Kia Clarus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Kia Clarus weights approximately 28 kg more than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2009 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 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Kia Clarus, 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, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Kia Clarus. (152 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Kia Clarus.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Kia Clarus | 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | Kia | Mazda |
Model | Clarus | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1793 cc | 1998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 114 HP | 158 HP |
Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6700 RPM |
Torque | 152 Nm | 188 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 1192 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4700 mm | 4000 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1260 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2340 mm |