2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1991 Rover 400
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Rover 400. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Rover 400 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1991 Rover 400. (86 HP @ 4300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1991 Rover 400. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Rover 400 weights approximately 75 kg more than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 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, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (188 Nm) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Rover 400. (180 Nm). This means 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Rover 400.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1991 Rover 400 | |
| Make | Mazda | Rover |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 400 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1769 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 86 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 1170 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1250 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2560 mm |
