1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2005 Scion xA
To start off, 2005 Scion xA is newer by 7 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 6 more horse power than 2005 Scion xA. (106 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2005 Scion xA. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Scion xA weights approximately 45 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, 2005 Scion xA, 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, 2005 Scion xA (142 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2005 Scion xA will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2005 Scion xA has automatic transmission and 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Scion xA will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2005 Scion xA | |
| Make | Mazda | Scion |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | xA |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1495 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 112 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 142 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 1070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 3920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2380 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 45 L |
