2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1997 Mercury Villager
To start off, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercury Villager. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercury Villager would be higher. At 2,960 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Mercury Villager is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercury Villager (149 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (134 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercury Villager should accelerate faster than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercury Villager weights approximately 735 kg more than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 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 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Mercury Villager, 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1997 Mercury Villager | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercury |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Villager |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 2960 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1065 kg | 1800 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2860 mm |
