2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1996 Subaru Impreza
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 Subaru Impreza. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Subaru Impreza 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 Subaru Impreza. (89 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1996 Subaru Impreza. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 185 kg more than 1996 Subaru Impreza. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Subaru Impreza is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Subaru Impreza will offer significantly more control. 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 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Subaru Impreza. (129 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 Subaru Impreza.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1996 Subaru Impreza | |
| Make | Mazda | Subaru |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Impreza |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 166 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 129 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1329 kg | 1144 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2530 mm |
