1985 Jeep CJ vs. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Jeep CJ. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Jeep CJ would be higher. At 1,997 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 82 more horse power than 1985 Jeep CJ. (85 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1985 Jeep CJ. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Jeep CJ weights approximately 116 kg more than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 1985 Jeep CJ is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 Jeep CJ will offer significantly more control. 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 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Jeep CJ. (150 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Jeep CJ.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Jeep CJ | 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Jeep | Mazda |
| Model | CJ | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2009 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1296 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3900 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1840 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2340 mm |
