1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2011 Honda Insight
To start off, 2011 Honda Insight is newer by 14 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Honda Insight (98 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Honda Insight should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Honda Insight weights approximately 276 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, 2011 Honda Insight, 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, 2011 Honda Insight (167 Nm @ 1000 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (129 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Honda Insight 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 | 2011 Honda Insight | |
Make | Mazda | Honda |
Model | MX-5 Miata | Insight |
Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1300 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 89 HP | 98 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 129 Nm | 167 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1241 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4376 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1694 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1427 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2550 mm |