1987 Chrysler TC vs. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Chrysler TC. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Chrysler TC would be higher. At 2,213 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Chrysler TC is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Chrysler TC (175 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1987 Chrysler TC should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Chrysler TC weights approximately 282 kg more than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Chrysler TC, 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, 1987 Chrysler TC (271 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1987 Chrysler TC will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Chrysler TC | 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mazda |
| Model | TC | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2213 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 83 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 |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1474 kg | 1192 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2340 mm |
