1989 Mazda 323 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 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata (170 HP) has 96 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 425 kg more than 1989 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (104 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda 323 | 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 323 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 170 HP |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 985 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 48 L |
