2008 Dodge Ram vs. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2008 Dodge Ram is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 5,654 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Ram (346 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 208 more horse power than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (138 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Ram weights approximately 720 kg more than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 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 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Ram, 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, 2008 Dodge Ram (509 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 347 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (162 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Dodge Ram | 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Dodge | Mazda |
| Model | Ram | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5654 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 346 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 509 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1745 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5840 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1880 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3580 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.1 L/100km | 8.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 132 L | 50 L |
