2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz A 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 (158 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (88 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 112 kg more than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A, 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 @ 5000 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | A |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1689 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 88 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 215 km/hour | 173 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.2 seconds | 13.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1207 kg | 1095 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 54 L |
