2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1996 Mitsubishi Colt
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 Mitsubishi Colt. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mitsubishi Colt would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (166 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1996 Mitsubishi Colt. (89 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1996 Mitsubishi Colt. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 282 kg more than 1996 Mitsubishi Colt. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1996 Mitsubishi Colt, 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 (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mitsubishi Colt. (138 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mitsubishi Colt.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1996 Mitsubishi Colt | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Colt |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 166 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 138 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1332 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2430 mm |
