2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1999 Toyota Previa
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Toyota Previa. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Toyota Previa would be higher. At 2,438 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Toyota Previa is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (166 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1999 Toyota Previa. (133 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1999 Toyota Previa. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Toyota Previa weights approximately 286 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, 1999 Toyota Previa, 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, 1999 Toyota Previa (206 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1999 Toyota Previa 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 | 1999 Toyota Previa | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Previa |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2438 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 166 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 8 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1329 kg | 1615 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.1 L/100km | 8.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 75 L |
