2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2005 Lancia Zeta
To start off, 2005 Lancia Zeta is newer by 4 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Lancia Zeta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata (155 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2005 Lancia Zeta. (135 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2005 Lancia Zeta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 71 kg more than 2005 Lancia Zeta. 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, 2005 Lancia Zeta, 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, 2005 Lancia Zeta (186 Nm) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (171 Nm). This means 2005 Lancia Zeta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2005 Lancia Zeta 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. 2005 Lancia Zeta will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2005 Lancia Zeta | |
| Make | Mazda | Lancia |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Zeta |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1835 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 155 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.1 mm | 88 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1671 kg | 1600 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2830 mm |
