2004 Fiat Punto vs. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2004 Fiat Punto 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 (138 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 2004 Fiat Punto. (79 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2004 Fiat Punto. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 30 kg more than 2004 Fiat Punto. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 Punto, 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 Punto (260 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 98 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (162 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2004 Fiat Punto will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Fiat Punto | 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | Punto | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1242 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70.9 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.9 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.4 seconds | 11 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 995 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3850 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6 L/100km | 8.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 47 L | 50 L |
