2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1996 Nissan Patrol
To start off, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Nissan Patrol. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Nissan Patrol would be higher. At 2,825 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Nissan Patrol is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata (178 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1996 Nissan Patrol. (114 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1996 Nissan Patrol. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Nissan Patrol weights approximately 735 kg more than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Nissan Patrol, 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, 1996 Nissan Patrol (225 Nm) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (220 Nm). This means 1996 Nissan Patrol will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1996 Nissan Patrol | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Patrol |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1835 cc | 2825 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 178 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1147 kg | 1882 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1940 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1820 mm |
