2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1997 Peugeot 406
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 Peugeot 406. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Peugeot 406 would be higher. At 1,998 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 24 more horse power than 1997 Peugeot 406. (134 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1997 Peugeot 406. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Peugeot 406 weights approximately 246 kg more than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
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 Peugeot 406, 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, 1997 Peugeot 406 (190 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1997 Peugeot 406 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 1997 Peugeot 406 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 Peugeot 406 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1997 Peugeot 406 | |
| Make | Mazda | Peugeot |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 406 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 210 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.9 seconds | 10.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1098 kg | 1344 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.2 L/100km | 5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 70 L |
