1989 Chrysler ES vs. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Chrysler ES. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Chrysler ES would be higher. At 2,213 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Chrysler ES is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (158 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1989 Chrysler ES. (93 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1989 Chrysler ES. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 47 kg more than 1989 Chrysler ES. 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, 1989 Chrysler ES, 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, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Chrysler ES. (165 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Chrysler ES.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Chrysler ES | 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mazda |
| Model | ES | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2213 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 93 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 188 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.6 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.1:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1145 kg | 1192 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2340 mm |
