2004 Fiat Barchetta vs. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2004 Fiat Barchetta is newer by 5 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 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata (137 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2004 Fiat Barchetta. (129 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2004 Fiat Barchetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Fiat Barchetta weights approximately 30 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, 2004 Fiat Barchetta, 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 Mazda MX-5 Miata (163 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Fiat Barchetta. (162 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Fiat Barchetta. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata has automatic transmission and 2004 Fiat Barchetta has manual transmission. 2004 Fiat Barchetta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Fiat Barchetta | 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | Barchetta | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1755 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 137 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 163 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3920 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2280 mm | 2300 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 50 L |
