2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1998 Proton Saloon
To start off, 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Proton Saloon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Proton Saloon 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 1998 Proton Saloon. (74 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1998 Proton Saloon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 75 kg more than 1998 Proton Saloon. 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, 1998 Proton Saloon, 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 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Proton Saloon. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Proton Saloon.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1998 Proton Saloon | |
| Make | Mazda | Proton |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Saloon |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 112 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2390 mm |
