2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1995 Toyota Corolla
To start off, 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Toyota Corolla. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Toyota Corolla would be higher. At 1,498 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata (112 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1995 Toyota Corolla. (74 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1995 Toyota Corolla. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 35 kg more than 1995 Toyota Corolla. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 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 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1995 Toyota Corolla, 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, 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata (124 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Toyota Corolla. (111 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Toyota Corolla.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1995 Toyota Corolla | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Corolla |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1995 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1332 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 112 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 111 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2470 mm |
