1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2005 Toyota Corolla
To start off, 2005 Toyota Corolla is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata (137 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 2005 Toyota Corolla. (97 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2005 Toyota Corolla. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Toyota Corolla weights approximately 170 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, 2005 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 (163 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Toyota Corolla. (130 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Toyota Corolla. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata has automatic transmission and 2005 Toyota Corolla has manual transmission. 2005 Toyota Corolla will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2005 Toyota Corolla | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Corolla |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 1398 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 137 HP | 97 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 163 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11 seconds | 12 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |
