2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1999 Suzuki Baleno
To start off, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Suzuki Baleno. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Suzuki Baleno would be higher. At 1,498 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata (112 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1999 Suzuki Baleno. (70 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1999 Suzuki Baleno. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 95 kg more than 1999 Suzuki Baleno. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1999 Suzuki Baleno, 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, 1999 Suzuki Baleno (171 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1999 Suzuki Baleno 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 | 1999 Suzuki Baleno | |
| Make | Mazda | Suzuki |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Baleno |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 112 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| 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 | 930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2490 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 51 L |
