1989 Dodge Spirit vs. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Dodge Spirit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Dodge Spirit would be higher. At 2,213 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Dodge Spirit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata (155 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1989 Dodge Spirit. (150 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1989 Dodge Spirit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 355 kg more than 1989 Dodge Spirit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 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 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Dodge Spirit, 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 Dodge Spirit (244 Nm) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (171 Nm). This means 1989 Dodge Spirit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Dodge Spirit | 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Dodge | Mazda |
| Model | Spirit | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2213 cc | 1835 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 155 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 244 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1316 kg | 1671 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4610 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2270 mm |
