1988 Austin Montego vs. 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA
To start off, 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Austin Montego. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Austin Montego would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA (165 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1988 Austin Montego. (85 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA should accelerate faster than 1988 Austin Montego. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA weights approximately 66 kg more than 1988 Austin Montego. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2013 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 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Austin Montego, 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, 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Austin Montego. (134 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Austin Montego.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Austin Montego | 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA | |
| Make | Austin | Mazda |
| Model | Montego | MX-5 MIATA |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1116 kg | 1182 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4032 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1255 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2330 mm |
