2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1996 Mini MK VII
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 Mini MK VII. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mini MK VII would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1996 Mini MK VII. (96 HP @ 6130 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1996 Mini MK VII. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 360 kg more than 1996 Mini MK VII. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 Mini MK VII, 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 Mazda MX-5 Miata (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mini MK VII. (115 Nm @ 2650 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mini MK VII.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1996 Mini MK VII | |
| Make | Mazda | Mini |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | MK VII |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1275 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6130 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 115 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2650 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 3060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1250 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2040 mm |
