2004 Hyundai XG 350 vs. 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2004 Hyundai XG 350 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 3,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Hyundai XG 350 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Hyundai XG 350 (194 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Hyundai XG 350 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Hyundai XG 350 weights approximately 785 kg more than 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 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 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Hyundai XG 350, 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 Hyundai XG 350 (305 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 176 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (129 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Hyundai XG 350 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2004 Hyundai XG 350 has automatic transmission and 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Hyundai XG 350 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Hyundai XG 350 | 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Hyundai | Mazda |
| Model | XG 350 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3497 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 194 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 129 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 78.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.8 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1750 kg | 965 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2270 mm |
