2008 Nissan Primera vs. 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Nissan Primera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Nissan Primera would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 2008 Nissan Primera. (114 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2008 Nissan Primera. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Nissan Primera weights approximately 222 kg more than 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2012 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 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Nissan Primera, 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, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Nissan Primera. (163 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Nissan Primera.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Nissan Primera | 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Nissan | Mazda |
| Model | Primera | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1769 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 163 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1361 kg | 1139 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 3995 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1245 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2329 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 48 L |
