1997 Mercury Villager vs. 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercury Villager. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercury Villager would be higher. At 2,960 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Mercury Villager is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1997 Mercury Villager. (149 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercury Villager. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercury Villager weights approximately 661 kg more than 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2010 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 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Mercury Villager, 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercury Villager | 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Mercury | Mazda |
| Model | Villager | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2960 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 149 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1800 kg | 1139 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4950 mm | 3995 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1245 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2329 mm |
