2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1997 Proton Perdana
To start off, 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Proton Perdana. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Proton Perdana would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Proton Perdana is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Proton Perdana (135 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (112 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Proton Perdana should accelerate faster than 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Proton Perdana weights approximately 220 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 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, 1997 Proton Perdana, 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, 1997 Proton Perdana (176 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1997 Proton Perdana will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 1997 Proton Perdana has automatic transmission and 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Proton Perdana will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1997 Proton Perdana | |
| Make | Mazda | Proton |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Perdana |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 112 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 1245 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2640 mm |
