2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1996 Rover 400
To start off, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Rover 400. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Rover 400 would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata (160 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1996 Rover 400. (109 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1996 Rover 400.
Because 2006 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 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Rover 400, 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, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Rover 400. (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Rover 400.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1996 Rover 400 | |
| Make | Mazda | Rover |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 400 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1589 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.6 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 3990 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2560 mm |
