2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1997 Mitsubishi Colt
To start off, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mitsubishi Colt. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mitsubishi Colt would be higher. At 1,498 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata (112 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1997 Mitsubishi Colt. (74 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1997 Mitsubishi Colt. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 80 kg more than 1997 Mitsubishi Colt. 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, 1997 Mitsubishi Colt, 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 (124 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mitsubishi Colt. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mitsubishi Colt.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1997 Mitsubishi Colt | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Colt |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 112 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 945 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2430 mm |
