2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1997 Mazda Sentia
To start off, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mazda Sentia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mazda Sentia would be higher. At 2,953 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Mazda Sentia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata (178 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1997 Mazda Sentia. (158 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda Sentia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mazda Sentia weights approximately 413 kg more than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1997 Mazda Sentia (245 Nm) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (220 Nm). This means 1997 Mazda Sentia 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 | 1997 Mazda Sentia | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Sentia |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1835 cc | 2953 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 178 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1147 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2860 mm |
