2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1997 Peugeot 406
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 Peugeot 406. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Peugeot 406 would be higher. At 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata (134 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1997 Peugeot 406. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1997 Peugeot 406. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Peugeot 406 weights approximately 175 kg more than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
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 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, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata (163 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Peugeot 406. (133 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Peugeot 406.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1997 Peugeot 406 | |
| Make | Mazda | Peugeot |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 406 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 1580 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 163 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1065 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2710 mm |
