1999 Kia Clarus vs. 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Kia Clarus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Kia Clarus would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata (158 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1999 Kia Clarus. (130 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1999 Kia Clarus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Kia Clarus weights approximately 135 kg more than 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2007 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 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Kia Clarus, 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, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Kia Clarus. (170 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Kia Clarus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Kia Clarus | 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Kia | Mazda |
| Model | Clarus | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1793 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 130 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 188 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1095 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1250 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2340 mm |
