1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1999 Honda Z

To start off, both 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata and 1999 Honda Z were released in the same year (1999). Therefore the support and the availability on parts for both vehicles should be relatively similar. At 1,839 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata (110 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1999 Honda Z. (51 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1999 Honda Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 160 kg more than 1999 Honda Z. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

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, 1999 Honda Z, 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 181 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Honda Z. (60 Nm). This means 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Honda Z. 1999 Honda Z has automatic transmission and 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Honda Z will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata 1999 Honda Z
Make Mazda Honda
Model MX-5 Miata Z
Year Released 1999 1999
Body Type Convertible Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1839 cc 654 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 3 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 110 HP 51 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 7000 RPM
Torque 241 Nm 60 Nm
Engine Bore Size 83.1 mm 66 mm
Engine Stroke Size 85.1 mm 64 mm
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1120 kg 960 kg
Vehicle Length 3950 mm 3410 mm
Vehicle Width 1680 mm 1490 mm
Vehicle Height 1230 mm 1690 mm
Wheelbase Size 2270 mm 2410 mm