2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1996 Mitsubishi Carisma
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 Mitsubishi Carisma. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mitsubishi Carisma would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1996 Mitsubishi Carisma. (89 HP @ 4250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1996 Mitsubishi Carisma.
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 Mitsubishi Carisma, 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 (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mitsubishi Carisma. (176 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mitsubishi Carisma.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1996 Mitsubishi Carisma | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Carisma |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1870 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1410 mm |
