1987 Dodge Daytona vs. 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Dodge Daytona. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Dodge Daytona would be higher. At 2,212 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Dodge Daytona is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Dodge Daytona (172 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1987 Dodge Daytona should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Dodge Daytona weights approximately 165 kg more than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Dodge Daytona, 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 Dodge Daytona (271 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1987 Dodge Daytona will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Dodge Daytona | 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Dodge | Mazda |
| Model | Daytona | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | 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 | 172 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 1055 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 50 L |
