2004 Fiat Idea vs. 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2004 Fiat Idea is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata (129 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 2004 Fiat Idea. (71 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2004 Fiat Idea. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Fiat Idea weights approximately 160 kg more than 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 1994 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 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Fiat Idea, 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, 2004 Fiat Idea (180 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (152 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2004 Fiat Idea will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Fiat Idea | 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | Idea | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1994 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1368 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 152 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3940 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1240 mm |
