1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2008 Mazda CX-7
To start off, 2008 Mazda CX-7 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 2,261 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda CX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda CX-7 (256 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 167 more horse power than 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda CX-7 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda CX-7 weights approximately 730 kg more than 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Mazda CX-7 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mazda CX-7 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, 2008 Mazda CX-7 (380 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 251 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (129 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda CX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2008 Mazda CX-7 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | CX-7 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2261 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 256 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 129 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.1 mm | 87.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 94 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1695 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1650 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2760 mm |
