1986 Buick Century vs. 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Buick Century. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Buick Century would be higher. At 3,800 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Buick Century is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 HP) has 17 more horse power than 1986 Buick Century. (150 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1986 Buick Century.
Because 2012 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 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Buick Century, 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, 1986 Buick Century (270 Nm) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (190 Nm). This means 1986 Buick Century will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Buick Century | 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Buick | Mazda |
| Model | Century | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3800 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 167 HP |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4803 mm | 3995 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1763 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1364 mm | 1245 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2662 mm | 2329 mm |
