2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1996 Suzuki Esteem
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 Suzuki Esteem. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Suzuki Esteem would be higher. At 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (140 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1996 Suzuki Esteem. (70 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1996 Suzuki Esteem. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 400 kg more than 1996 Suzuki Esteem. 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 Suzuki Esteem, 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 (168 Nm) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Suzuki Esteem. (128 Nm). This means 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Suzuki Esteem.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1996 Suzuki Esteem | |
| Make | Mazda | Suzuki |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Esteem |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 1590 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 128 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 74.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Top Speed | 205 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1380 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2490 mm |
