2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1998 Honda Capa
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Honda Capa. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Honda Capa 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 (159 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1998 Honda Capa. (97 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1998 Honda Capa. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 75 kg more than 1998 Honda Capa. 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, 1998 Honda Capa, 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 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Honda Capa. (136 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Honda Capa. 1998 Honda Capa 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. 1998 Honda Capa will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1998 Honda Capa | |
| Make | Mazda | Honda |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Capa |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 159 HP | 97 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 136 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1155 kg | 1080 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 3780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1660 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2370 mm |
