1997 Mitsubishi Verada vs. 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mitsubishi Verada. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mitsubishi Verada would be higher. At 3,497 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Mitsubishi Verada is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mitsubishi Verada (197 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (167 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mitsubishi Verada should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mitsubishi Verada weights approximately 371 kg more than 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 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 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Mitsubishi Verada, 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 Mitsubishi Verada (300 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1997 Mitsubishi Verada will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mitsubishi Verada | 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Mazda |
| Model | Verada | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3497 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1139 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4940 mm | 3995 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1245 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2329 mm |
