2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1997 Nissan Sentra
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 Nissan Sentra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Nissan Sentra 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 93 more horse power than 1997 Nissan Sentra. (85 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1997 Nissan Sentra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 181 kg more than 1997 Nissan Sentra. 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 Nissan Sentra, 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 Mazda MX-5 Miata (220 Nm) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Nissan Sentra. (118 Nm). This means 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Nissan Sentra.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1997 Nissan Sentra | |
Make | Mazda | Nissan |
Model | MX-5 Miata | Sentra |
Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1835 cc | 1392 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 178 HP | 85 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 220 Nm | 118 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1147 kg | 966 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4290 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1680 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2440 mm |