1989 Dodge Colt 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 Dodge Colt. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Dodge Colt would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (158 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1989 Dodge Colt. (97 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1989 Dodge Colt. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Dodge Colt weights approximately 20 kg more than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
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 Dodge Colt, 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 (189 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Dodge Colt. (153 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Dodge Colt.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Dodge Colt | 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Dodge | Mazda |
| Model | Colt | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 97 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 189 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1195 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2340 mm |
