1986 Fiat Croma vs. 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Fiat Croma. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Fiat Croma would be higher. At 1,929 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Fiat Croma is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata (112 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1986 Fiat Croma. (94 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1986 Fiat Croma. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Fiat Croma weights approximately 260 kg more than 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2002 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 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Fiat Croma, 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, 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata (124 Nm) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Fiat Croma. (84 Nm). This means 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Fiat Croma.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Fiat Croma | 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | Croma | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1929 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 112 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 84 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2270 mm |
