1986 Subaru XT 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 Subaru XT. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Subaru XT would be higher. At 2,672 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Subaru XT is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1986 Subaru XT. (147 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1986 Subaru XT. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Subaru XT weights approximately 139 kg more than 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
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 Subaru XT, 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 Subaru XT (211 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1986 Subaru XT will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Subaru XT | 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Subaru | Mazda |
| Model | XT | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2672 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 147 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1278 kg | 1139 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 3995 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1245 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2329 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 48 L |
