2003 Fiat Idea vs. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2003 Fiat Idea is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata (110 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 2003 Fiat Idea. (69 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2003 Fiat Idea. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Fiat Idea weights approximately 162 kg more than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 1999 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 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Fiat Idea, 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, 2003 Fiat Idea (180 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (134 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2003 Fiat Idea will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Fiat Idea | 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | Idea | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1247 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 69.6 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Top Speed | 159 km/hour | 191 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 15.4 seconds | 9.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1038 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3940 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 50 L |
