2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1997 Pontiac Trans Sport
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 Pontiac Trans Sport. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Pontiac Trans Sport would be higher. At 2,260 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Pontiac Trans Sport is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (159 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1997 Pontiac Trans Sport. (145 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1997 Pontiac Trans Sport. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Pontiac Trans Sport weights approximately 532 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 Pontiac Trans Sport, 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 Pontiac Trans Sport (190 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1997 Pontiac Trans Sport will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1997 Pontiac Trans Sport | |
| Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Trans Sport |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2260 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 159 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 210 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.9 seconds | 12.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1702 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 3110 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 76 L |
