2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (128 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 44 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 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 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A, 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, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1998 Mercedes-Benz A | |
Make | Mazda | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | MX-5 Miata | A |
Year Released | 2012 | 1998 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2000 cc | 1997 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 167 HP | 128 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 190 Nm | 180 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | 6-speed manual | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 1139 kg | 1095 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3995 mm | 3580 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1245 mm | 1590 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2329 mm | 2430 mm |