2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1998 Rover 400
To start off, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Rover 400. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Rover 400 would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata (108 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1998 Rover 400. (102 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1998 Rover 400. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Rover 400 weights approximately 10 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, 1998 Rover 400, 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, 1998 Rover 400 (182 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (135 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1998 Rover 400 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 | 1998 Rover 400 | |
| Make | Mazda | Rover |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 400 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1394 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 102 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 182 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 79 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2630 mm |
