2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1996 Mazda MPV
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mazda MPV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda MPV would be higher. At 2,954 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Mazda MPV is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mazda MPV (146 HP @ 4700 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mazda MPV should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mazda MPV weights approximately 565 kg more than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1996 Mazda MPV (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1996 Mazda MPV will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1996 Mazda MPV | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | MPV |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 2954 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1155 kg | 1720 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2850 mm |
