2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1997 Mitsubishi Magna
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 Mitsubishi Magna. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mitsubishi Magna would be higher. At 2,972 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Mitsubishi Magna is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mitsubishi Magna (187 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (178 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mitsubishi Magna should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mitsubishi Magna weights approximately 308 kg more than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1997 Mitsubishi Magna, 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, 1997 Mitsubishi Magna (255 Nm) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (220 Nm). This means 1997 Mitsubishi Magna 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 Mitsubishi Magna | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Magna |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1835 cc | 2972 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 178 HP | 187 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 255 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1147 kg | 1455 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2730 mm |
