1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2002 Samsung SM3
To start off, 2002 Samsung SM3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,498 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata (112 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 2002 Samsung SM3. (95 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2002 Samsung SM3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Samsung SM3 weights approximately 135 kg more than 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
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, 2002 Samsung SM3, 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, 2002 Samsung SM3 (135 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2002 Samsung SM3 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 | 2002 Samsung SM3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Samsung |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | SM3 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 112 HP | 95 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2540 mm |
