1998 Mitsubishi Space Star vs. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mitsubishi Space Star. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mitsubishi Space Star would be higher. At 1,870 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mitsubishi Space Star is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata (134 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1998 Mitsubishi Space Star. (101 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1998 Mitsubishi Space Star. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mitsubishi Space Star weights approximately 180 kg more than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2001 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 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Mitsubishi Space Star, 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, 1998 Mitsubishi Space Star (219 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (163 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1998 Mitsubishi Space Star will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata has automatic transmission and 1998 Mitsubishi Space Star has manual transmission. 1998 Mitsubishi Space Star will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mitsubishi Space Star | 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Mazda |
| Model | Space Star | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1870 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 219 Nm | 163 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1245 kg | 1065 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2270 mm |
