1982 Honda Ballade vs. 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Honda Ballade. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Honda Ballade would be higher. At 1,839 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata (138 HP) has 71 more horse power than 1982 Honda Ballade. (67 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1982 Honda Ballade. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 240 kg more than 1982 Honda Ballade. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 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 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1982 Honda Ballade, 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, 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata (162 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Honda Ballade. (109 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Honda Ballade.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Honda Ballade | 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Honda | Mazda |
| Model | Ballade | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1982 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1335 cc | 1839 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 138 HP |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 785 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2330 mm | 2270 mm |
