2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1997 Suzuki C2
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 Suzuki C2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Suzuki C2 would be higher. At 1,835 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Suzuki C2 (251 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (178 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Suzuki C2 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 299 kg more than 1997 Suzuki C2.
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 Suzuki C2, 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 Suzuki C2 (284 Nm) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (220 Nm). This means 1997 Suzuki C2 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 Suzuki C2 | |
| Make | Mazda | Suzuki |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | C2 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1835 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 178 HP | 251 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 284 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1147 kg | 848 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2240 mm |
