2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1996 Rover 400
To start off, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 11 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), 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata (158 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 1996 Rover 400. (85 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1996 Rover 400. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Rover 400 weights approximately 13 kg more than 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2007 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 2007 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, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata (189 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Rover 400. (170 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Rover 400.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1996 Rover 400 | |
| Make | Mazda | Rover |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 400 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 189 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1207 kg | 1220 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2630 mm |
