1989 Alfa Romeo RZ vs. 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Alfa Romeo RZ. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Alfa Romeo RZ would be higher. At 2,958 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Alfa Romeo RZ is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 405 kg more than 1989 Alfa Romeo RZ.
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, 1989 Alfa Romeo RZ (244 Nm) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (168 Nm). This means 1989 Alfa Romeo RZ will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Alfa Romeo RZ | 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
| Model | RZ | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2958 cc | 1837 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 139 HP |
| Torque | 244 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.9 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 233 km/hour | 208 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 3980 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2650 mm |
