2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1997 Nissan Primera
To start off, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Nissan Primera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Nissan Primera 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 (158 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1997 Nissan Primera. (101 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1997 Nissan Primera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Nissan Primera weights approximately 31 kg more than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
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, 1997 Nissan Primera, 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 (189 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Nissan Primera. (136 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Nissan Primera.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1997 Nissan Primera | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Primera |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 189 Nm | 136 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1129 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3990 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2610 mm |
