2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1997 Mitsubishi Verada
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 Verada. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mitsubishi Verada would be higher. At 3,497 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Mitsubishi Verada is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mitsubishi Verada (197 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mitsubishi Verada should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mitsubishi Verada weights approximately 455 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, 1997 Mitsubishi Verada, 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, 1997 Mitsubishi Verada (300 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 133 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1997 Mitsubishi Verada will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 1997 Mitsubishi Verada has automatic transmission and 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Mitsubishi Verada will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1997 Mitsubishi Verada | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Verada |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 3497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 1510 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2730 mm |
