2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2002 Nissan Sentra
To start off, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Nissan Sentra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Nissan Sentra would be higher. At 2,501 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Nissan Sentra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata (166 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 2002 Nissan Sentra. (138 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2002 Nissan Sentra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Nissan Sentra weights approximately 105 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, 2002 Nissan Sentra, 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, 2002 Nissan Sentra (245 Nm) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (190 Nm). This means 2002 Nissan Sentra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2002 Nissan Sentra | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Sentra |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2501 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 166 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1285 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2540 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 76 L |
