1989 Buick Electra vs. 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Buick Electra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Buick Electra would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Buick Electra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Buick Electra (163 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Buick Electra should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2006 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 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Buick Electra, 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, 1989 Buick Electra (285 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1989 Buick Electra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Buick Electra | 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Buick | Mazda |
| Model | Electra | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3791 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 163 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 188 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
