1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1996 Nissan Maxima
To start off, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Nissan Maxima. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Nissan Maxima would be higher. At 1,995 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 138 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 320 kg more than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 1999 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 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Nissan Maxima, 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, 1996 Nissan Maxima (178 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (162 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1996 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1996 Nissan Maxima | |
Make | Mazda | Nissan |
Model | MX-5 Miata | Maxima |
Year Released | 1999 | 1996 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1840 cc | 1995 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6400 RPM |
Torque | 162 Nm | 178 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 1345 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4780 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2710 mm |