1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2009 Mazda CX-7
To start off, 2009 Mazda CX-7 is newer by 12 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 2,260 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda CX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda CX-7 (244 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 155 more horse power than 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda CX-7 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda CX-7 weights approximately 215 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 1997 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 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mazda CX-7, 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 CX-7 (350 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 221 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (129 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda CX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2009 Mazda CX-7 has automatic transmission and 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mazda CX-7 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2009 Mazda CX-7 | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | MX-5 Miata | CX-7 |
Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2260 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 89 HP | 244 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 129 Nm | 350 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1180 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4680 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1880 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1650 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2760 mm |