1989 Honda Civic 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 Honda Civic. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Honda Civic would be higher. At 1,835 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata (155 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1989 Honda Civic. (90 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1989 Honda Civic.
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 Honda Civic, 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, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata (171 Nm) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Honda Civic. (114 Nm). This means 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Honda Civic.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Honda Civic | 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | Honda | Mazda |
Model | Civic | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 1989 | 2001 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1396 cc | 1835 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 90 HP | 155 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 114 Nm | 171 Nm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 3960 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1680 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1230 mm |