2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1988 Suzuki Vitara
To start off, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Suzuki Vitara. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Suzuki Vitara would be higher. At 1,835 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata (178 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 1988 Suzuki Vitara. (75 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1988 Suzuki Vitara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 137 kg more than 1988 Suzuki Vitara. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 Suzuki Vitara is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Suzuki Vitara 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 Mazda MX-5 Miata (220 Nm) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Suzuki Vitara. (123 Nm). This means 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Suzuki Vitara.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1988 Suzuki Vitara | |
| Make | Mazda | Suzuki |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Vitara |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1835 cc | 1590 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 178 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 75.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.9:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1147 kg | 1010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 3630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1930 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2210 mm |
