1998 Mazda Midge vs. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mazda Midge. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mazda Midge would be higher. At 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata (138 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1998 Mazda Midge. (67 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda Midge. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 59 kg more than 1998 Mazda Midge. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 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 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Mazda Midge, 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, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata (162 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda Midge. (101 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda Midge.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda Midge | 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | Midge | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1323 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 101 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1230 mm |
