1997 Lancia Zeta vs. 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 1997 Lancia Zeta is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Lancia Zeta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Lancia Zeta (145 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (116 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Lancia Zeta should accelerate faster than 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Lancia Zeta weights approximately 695 kg more than 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1991 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 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Lancia Zeta, 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 Lancia Zeta (235 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (130 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1997 Lancia Zeta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Lancia Zeta | 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Lancia | Mazda |
| Model | Zeta | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 235 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1650 kg | 955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1720 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2270 mm |
