2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2006 Mitsubishi Outlander
To start off, 2006 Mitsubishi Outlander is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 2,376 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mitsubishi Outlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mitsubishi Outlander (161 HP @ 5650 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (112 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mitsubishi Outlander should accelerate faster than 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mitsubishi Outlander weights approximately 505 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 2006 Mitsubishi Outlander 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, 2006 Mitsubishi Outlander 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, 2006 Mitsubishi Outlander (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2006 Mitsubishi Outlander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2006 Mitsubishi Outlander 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. 2006 Mitsubishi Outlander will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2006 Mitsubishi Outlander | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Outlander |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 2376 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 112 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5650 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 60 L |
