1988 Dodge Spirit vs. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Dodge Spirit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Dodge Spirit would be higher. At 2,213 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Dodge Spirit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Dodge Spirit (150 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Dodge Spirit should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Dodge Spirit weights approximately 166 kg more than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1988 Dodge Spirit, 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, 1988 Dodge Spirit (244 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1988 Dodge Spirit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Dodge Spirit | 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Dodge | Mazda |
| Model | Spirit | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | 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 | 150 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 244 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1316 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4610 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2340 mm |
