2009 Honda Element vs. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2009 Honda Element is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 2,354 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Honda Element is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Honda Element (166 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (110 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Honda Element should accelerate faster than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Honda Element weights approximately 91 kg more than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 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 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Honda Element, 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 Honda Element (218 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (134 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 Honda Element will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Honda Element | 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Honda | Mazda |
| Model | Element | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Crossover | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2354 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 166 HP | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 16.3:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1129 kg | 1038 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1770 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 50 L |
