2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2004 Rover 45
To start off, 2004 Rover 45 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,997 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Rover 45 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata (155 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2004 Rover 45. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2004 Rover 45. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 331 kg more than 2004 Rover 45. 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, 2004 Rover 45, 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, 2004 Rover 45 (185 Nm) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (171 Nm). This means 2004 Rover 45 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2004 Rover 45 has automatic transmission and 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Rover 45 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2004 Rover 45 | |
| Make | Mazda | Rover |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 45 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1835 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 155 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1671 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2630 mm |
