1989 Audi Coupe vs. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata

To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Audi Coupe. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Audi Coupe would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (166 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1989 Audi Coupe. (111 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1989 Audi Coupe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 61 kg more than 1989 Audi Coupe. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2008 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 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Audi Coupe, 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, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Audi Coupe. (173 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Audi Coupe.

Compare all specifications:

1989 Audi Coupe 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata
Make Audi Mazda
Model Coupe MX-5 Miata
Year Released 1989 2008
Body Type Coupe Convertible
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1984 cc 1998 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 111 HP 166 HP
Engine RPM 5300 RPM 6700 RPM
Torque 173 Nm 190 Nm
Torque RPM 3250 RPM 5000 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 10.5:1 10.8:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Vehicle Weight 1130 kg 1191 kg
Vehicle Length 4370 mm 4000 mm
Vehicle Width 1720 mm 1730 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1250 mm
Wheelbase Size 2560 mm 2340 mm