1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2006 Nissan Altima

To start off, 2006 Nissan Altima is newer by 7 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 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Nissan Altima (250 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (138 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Nissan Altima weights approximately 444 kg more than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 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, 2006 Nissan Altima, 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, 2006 Nissan Altima (339 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 177 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (162 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2006 Nissan Altima 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 2006 Nissan Altima
Make Mazda Nissan
Model MX-5 Miata Altima
Year Released 1999 2006
Body Type Convertible Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1840 cc 3491 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 138 HP 250 HP
Engine RPM 6500 RPM 5800 RPM
Torque 162 Nm 339 Nm
Torque RPM 4500 RPM 4400 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1025 kg 1469 kg
Vehicle Length 3980 mm 4890 mm
Vehicle Width 1690 mm 1790 mm
Vehicle Height 1230 mm 1480 mm
Wheelbase Size 2270 mm 2810 mm
Fuel Consumption Overall 8.5 L/100km 9.8 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 50 L 76 L


 

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