1985 Mazda 323 vs. 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,839 cc (4 cylinders), 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata (129 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1985 Mazda 323. (103 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1985 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 43 kg more than 1985 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1993 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 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 Mazda 323, 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, 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata (155 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mazda 323. (137 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
1985 Mazda 323 | 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | 323 | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 1985 | 1993 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1597 cc | 1839 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 103 HP | 129 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 137 Nm | 155 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 85 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 9.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 940 kg | 983 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 3960 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1680 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1240 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2270 mm |