1985 Chevrolet Sprint vs. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Chevrolet Sprint. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Chevrolet Sprint would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 1985 Chevrolet Sprint. (47 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1985 Chevrolet Sprint. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 420 kg more than 1985 Chevrolet Sprint. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 Chevrolet Sprint, 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, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Chevrolet Sprint. (77 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Chevrolet Sprint.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Chevrolet Sprint | 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Sprint | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2008 |
| Engine Size | 993 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 47 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 77 Nm | 188 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 675 kg | 1095 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3590 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1540 mm | 1250 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2340 mm |
