1986 Peugeot 309 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 Peugeot 309. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Peugeot 309 would be higher. At 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata (124 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1986 Peugeot 309. (115 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1986 Peugeot 309.
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 Peugeot 309, 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 (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Peugeot 309. (133 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Peugeot 309.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Peugeot 309 | 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Peugeot | Mazda |
| Model | 309 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1580 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 3995 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1245 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2329 mm |
