1997 Lexus ES vs. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Lexus ES. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Lexus ES would be higher. At 2,997 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Lexus ES is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Lexus ES (210 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (138 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Lexus ES should accelerate faster than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Lexus ES weights approximately 505 kg more than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 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 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Lexus ES, 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 Lexus ES (304 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 142 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (162 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1997 Lexus ES will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 1997 Lexus ES has automatic transmission and 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Lexus ES will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Lexus ES | 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | Lexus | Mazda |
Model | ES | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 1997 | 1999 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2997 cc | 1840 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 210 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 304 Nm | 162 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 85 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1025 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 3980 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1230 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2270 mm |