2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1996 Toyota Carina
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 Toyota Carina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Toyota Carina would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1996 Toyota Carina. (82 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1996 Toyota Carina.
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 Toyota Carina, 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 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Toyota Carina. (174 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Toyota Carina.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1996 Toyota Carina | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Carina |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 82 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 174 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
