2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1996 Nissan Primera
To start off, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Nissan Primera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Nissan Primera would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Nissan Primera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Nissan Primera (148 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Nissan Primera should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Nissan Primera weights approximately 185 kg more than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Nissan Primera, 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, 1996 Nissan Primera (181 Nm) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (170 Nm). This means 1996 Nissan Primera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1996 Nissan Primera | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Primera |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1835 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 181 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1085 kg | 1270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3950 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2610 mm |
