1986 Austin Maestro vs. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Austin Maestro. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Austin Maestro would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (164 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1986 Austin Maestro. (66 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1986 Austin Maestro.
Because 2009 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 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Austin Maestro, 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, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (140 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Austin Maestro. (102 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Austin Maestro.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Austin Maestro | 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Austin | Mazda |
| Model | Maestro | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1274 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 164 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70.6 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.3 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 50 L |
