2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1997 Rover 400
To start off, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Rover 400. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 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 48 more horse power than 1997 Rover 400. (110 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1997 Rover 400.
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, 1997 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 (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Rover 400. (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Rover 400.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1997 Rover 400 | |
| Make | Mazda | Rover |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 400 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1997 |
| 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 | 158 HP | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2560 mm |
