2002 Honda Z vs. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2002 Honda Z is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata (138 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 2002 Honda Z. (51 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2002 Honda Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 65 kg more than 2002 Honda Z. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Honda Z is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Honda Z will offer significantly more control. 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, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata (162 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Honda Z. (60 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Honda Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Honda Z | 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Honda | Mazda |
| Model | Z | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 656 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 60 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 64 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3410 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 35 L | 50 L |
