1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2004 Toyota Tacoma
To start off, 2004 Toyota Tacoma is newer by 6 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 3,376 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Toyota Tacoma is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Toyota Tacoma (194 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (112 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Toyota Tacoma should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Toyota Tacoma weights approximately 615 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 2004 Toyota Tacoma is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Toyota Tacoma will offer significantly more control. 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, 2004 Toyota Tacoma (280 Nm) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 Nm). This means 2004 Toyota Tacoma 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 | 2004 Toyota Tacoma | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Tacoma |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 3376 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 112 HP | 194 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 1640 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 5160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 3100 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 70 L |
