1987 Nissan Vanette vs. 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Nissan Vanette. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Nissan Vanette would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 HP) has 107 more horse power than 1987 Nissan Vanette. (60 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1987 Nissan Vanette. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Nissan Vanette weights approximately 335 kg more than 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Nissan Vanette. (123 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Nissan Vanette.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Nissan Vanette | 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Nissan | Mazda |
| Model | Vanette | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Van | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1952 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 60 HP | 167 HP |
| Torque | 123 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1125 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3990 mm | 3995 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1940 mm | 1245 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2080 mm | 2329 mm |
