2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2012 Fiat 500
To start off, 2012 Fiat 500 is newer by 11 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 1,799 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Fiat 500 (133 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (99 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Fiat 500 should accelerate faster than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 125 kg more than 2012 Fiat 500.
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, 2012 Fiat 500, 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 (245 Nm) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Fiat 500. (206 Nm). This means 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Fiat 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2012 Fiat 500 | |
| Make | Mazda | Fiat |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 500 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 1368 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 99 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.1 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 3550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2310 mm |
