1987 Chrysler Le Baron vs. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Chrysler Le Baron. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Chrysler Le Baron would be higher. At 2,212 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Chrysler Le Baron is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (124 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1987 Chrysler Le Baron. (94 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1987 Chrysler Le Baron. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Chrysler Le Baron weights approximately 50 kg more than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2009 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 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Chrysler Le Baron, 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, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Chrysler Le Baron. (166 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Chrysler Le Baron.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Chrysler Le Baron | 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mazda |
| Model | Le Baron | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2212 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 166 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.1:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4700 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 50 L |
