1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2012 Scion tC
To start off, 2012 Scion tC is newer by 13 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 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Scion tC is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Scion tC (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (110 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Scion tC should accelerate faster 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, 2012 Scion tC, 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, 2012 Scion tC (234 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (134 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2012 Scion tC 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 | 2012 Scion tC | |
| Make | Mazda | Scion |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | tC |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 234 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1796 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1415 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |
