2007 Lexus RX vs. 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2007 Lexus RX is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 3,456 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Lexus RX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Lexus RX (272 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 134 more horse power than 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (138 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Lexus RX should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Lexus RX weights approximately 885 kg more than 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 Lexus RX is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Lexus RX will offer significantly more control. 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, 2007 Lexus RX (342 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (162 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2007 Lexus RX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2007 Lexus RX has automatic transmission and 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Lexus RX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Lexus RX | 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Lexus | Mazda |
| Model | RX | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1998 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3456 cc | 1839 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 272 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 342 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1910 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 50 L |
