1986 Oldsmobile Cutlass vs. 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Oldsmobile Cutlass. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Oldsmobile Cutlass would be higher. At 2,474 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Oldsmobile Cutlass is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1986 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1986 Oldsmobile Cutlass. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Oldsmobile Cutlass weights approximately 45 kg more than 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2011 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 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Oldsmobile Cutlass, 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, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (179 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Oldsmobile Cutlass.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Oldsmobile Cutlass | 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Oldsmobile | Mazda |
| Model | Cutlass | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2474 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 179 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1125 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 3995 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1245 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2329 mm |
