2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1996 Vector M12
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 Vector M12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Vector M12 would be higher. At 5,707 cc (12 cylinders), 1996 Vector M12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Vector M12 (484 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 306 more horse power than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (178 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Vector M12 should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Vector M12 weights approximately 483 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 Vector M12 (576 Nm) has 351 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (225 Nm). This means 1996 Vector M12 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 Vector M12 | |
| Make | Mazda | Vector |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | M12 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1835 cc | 5707 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 178 HP | 484 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 576 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1147 kg | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1140 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2750 mm |
