2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger
To start off, 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger would be higher. At 2,835 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (112 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger should accelerate faster than 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger weights approximately 785 kg more than 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger 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, 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 196 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1996 Mitsubishi Challenger | |
Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
Model | MX-5 Miata | Challenger |
Year Released | 2002 | 1996 |
Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1498 cc | 2835 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 112 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 124 Nm | 320 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 7 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 1810 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1740 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2730 mm |