2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1996 Mazda RX-01
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mazda RX-01. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda RX-01 would be higher. At 2,615 cc, 1996 Mazda RX-01 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mazda RX-01 (217 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (164 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mazda RX-01 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2009 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 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Mazda RX-01, 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, 1996 Mazda RX-01 (220 Nm @ 6000 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (140 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1996 Mazda RX-01 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1996 Mazda RX-01 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | RX-01 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2615 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 164 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2350 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |
