2009 Acura TL vs. 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2009 Acura TL is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 3,471 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Acura TL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Acura TL (276 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 187 more horse power than 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Acura TL should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 1997 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 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Acura TL, 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, 2009 Acura TL (254 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (129 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Acura TL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2009 Acura TL has automatic transmission and 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Acura TL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Acura TL | 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | Acura | Mazda |
Model | TL | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3471 cc | 1598 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 276 HP | 89 HP |
Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 254 Nm | 129 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 3960 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1680 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1240 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2270 mm |