2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1997 Porsche 993
To start off, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Porsche 993. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Porsche 993 would be higher. At 3,589 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Porsche 993 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Porsche 993 (282 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 178 more horse power than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (104 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Porsche 993 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Porsche 993 weights approximately 304 kg more than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Porsche 993 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Porsche 993 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, 1997 Porsche 993 (341 Nm @ 5250 RPM) has 207 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (134 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1997 Porsche 993 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1997 Porsche 993 | |
| Make | Mazda | Porsche |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 993 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 3589 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 282 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 341 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1116 kg | 1420 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2280 mm |
