2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1997 Peugeot 406
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Peugeot 406. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Peugeot 406 would be higher. At 2,088 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Peugeot 406 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1997 Peugeot 406. (108 HP @ 4300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1997 Peugeot 406. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Peugeot 406 weights approximately 435 kg more 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, 1997 Peugeot 406, 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, 1997 Peugeot 406 (250 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (191 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1997 Peugeot 406 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 | 1997 Peugeot 406 | |
| Make | Mazda | Peugeot |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 406 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2088 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Torque | 191 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2710 mm |
