2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1997 Peugeot 406
To start off, 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Peugeot 406. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Peugeot 406 would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Peugeot 406 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Peugeot 406 (134 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (99 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Peugeot 406 should accelerate faster than 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 441 kg more than 1997 Peugeot 406.
Because 2000 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 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Peugeot 406, 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, 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata (230 Nm) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Peugeot 406. (190 Nm). This means 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Peugeot 406. 1997 Peugeot 406 has automatic transmission and 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Peugeot 406 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1997 Peugeot 406 | |
| Make | Mazda | Peugeot |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 406 |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1839 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 99 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1344 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3950 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2730 mm |
