1988 Morgan 4 vs. 2012 Mazda CX-9
To start off, 2012 Mazda CX-9 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Morgan 4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Morgan 4 would be higher. At 3,700 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mazda CX-9 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda CX-9 (273 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 177 more horse power than 1988 Morgan 4. (96 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda CX-9 should accelerate faster than 1988 Morgan 4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda CX-9 weights approximately 1138 kg more than 1988 Morgan 4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 Morgan 4 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 1988 Morgan 4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mazda CX-9, 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, 2012 Mazda CX-9 (366 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 234 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Morgan 4. (132 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda CX-9 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Morgan 4. 2012 Mazda CX-9 has automatic transmission and 1988 Morgan 4 has manual transmission. 1988 Morgan 4 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mazda CX-9 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Morgan 4 | 2012 Mazda CX-9 | |
| Make | Morgan | Mazda |
| Model | 4 | CX-9 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 3700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 96 HP | 273 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 366 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 825 kg | 1963 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 5085 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1935 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1727 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2875 mm |
