2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1998 Mitsubishi Space Star
To start off, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mitsubishi Space Star. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mitsubishi Space Star would be higher. At 1,870 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mitsubishi Space Star is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata (112 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1998 Mitsubishi Space Star. (101 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1998 Mitsubishi Space Star. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mitsubishi Space Star weights approximately 220 kg more than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2003 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 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Mitsubishi Space Star, 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, 1998 Mitsubishi Space Star (219 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1998 Mitsubishi Space Star 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 | 1998 Mitsubishi Space Star | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Space Star |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1870 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 112 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 219 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 1245 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1570 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2510 mm |
