1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1988 Rover Vitesse
To start off, 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Rover Vitesse. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Rover Vitesse would be higher. At 2,675 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Rover Vitesse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Rover Vitesse (178 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (112 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Rover Vitesse should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Rover Vitesse weights approximately 402 kg more than 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 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 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Rover Vitesse, 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, 1988 Rover Vitesse (229 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1988 Rover Vitesse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1988 Rover Vitesse | |
Make | Mazda | Rover |
Model | MX-5 Miata | Vitesse |
Year Released | 1998 | 1988 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1498 cc | 2675 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 112 HP | 178 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 124 Nm | 229 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 1427 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4700 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2760 mm |