1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1997 Toyota Corolla
To start off, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Toyota Corolla. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Toyota Corolla would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Toyota Corolla is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata (110 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1997 Toyota Corolla. (71 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1997 Toyota Corolla. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Toyota Corolla weights approximately 140 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, 1997 Toyota Corolla, 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, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata (241 Nm) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Toyota Corolla. (135 Nm). This means 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Toyota Corolla.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1997 Toyota Corolla | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Corolla |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1839 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.1 mm | 85 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3950 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2470 mm |
