2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1996 Toyota Corolla
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 Toyota Corolla. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Toyota Corolla would be higher. At 1,835 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1996 Toyota Corolla. (74 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1996 Toyota Corolla. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 110 kg more than 1996 Toyota Corolla. 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 Toyota Corolla, 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, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata (170 Nm) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Toyota Corolla. (111 Nm). This means 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Toyota Corolla.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1996 Toyota Corolla | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Corolla |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1835 cc | 1330 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 111 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1085 kg | 975 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1660 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2470 mm |
