2004 Chrysler Pacifica vs. 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata

To start off, 2004 Chrysler Pacifica is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 3,518 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Chrysler Pacifica is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Chrysler Pacifica (250 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 161 more horse power than 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Chrysler Pacifica should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Chrysler Pacifica weights approximately 1200 kg more than 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2004 Chrysler Pacifica is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Chrysler Pacifica 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, 2004 Chrysler Pacifica (340 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 211 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (129 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Chrysler Pacifica will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2004 Chrysler Pacifica has automatic transmission and 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Chrysler Pacifica will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2004 Chrysler Pacifica 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata
Make Chrysler Mazda
Model Pacifica MX-5 Miata
Year Released 2004 1996
Body Type Crossover Convertible
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3518 cc 1596 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 250 HP 89 HP
Engine RPM 6400 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 340 Nm 129 Nm
Torque RPM 3950 RPM 4000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type 4WD Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 6 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 2165 kg 965 kg
Vehicle Length 5060 mm 3960 mm
Vehicle Width 2020 mm 1680 mm
Vehicle Height 1700 mm 1240 mm
Wheelbase Size 2620 mm 2270 mm