2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1997 Toyota Avensis
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 Toyota Avensis. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Toyota Avensis 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 69 more horse power than 1997 Toyota Avensis. (109 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1997 Toyota Avensis. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Toyota Avensis weights approximately 53 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, 1997 Toyota Avensis, 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 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Toyota Avensis. (155 Nm). This means 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Toyota Avensis.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1997 Toyota Avensis | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Avensis |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1835 cc | 1762 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 178 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 85.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1147 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 60 L |
