2001 Acura RSX vs. 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2001 Acura RSX is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Acura RSX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Acura RSX (160 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Acura RSX should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Acura RSX weights approximately 291 kg more than 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Acura RSX, 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, 2001 Acura RSX (191 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (129 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2001 Acura RSX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2001 Acura RSX has automatic transmission and 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Acura RSX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2001 Acura RSX | 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | Acura | Mazda |
Model | RSX | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 2001 | 1996 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1596 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 160 HP | 89 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 191 Nm | 129 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 85.9 mm | 78 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 85.9 mm | 83.6 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1256 kg | 965 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 3960 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1680 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1240 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2270 mm |