1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1996 Mini MK VI
To start off, 1996 Mini MK VI is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata (116 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1996 Mini MK VI. (41 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1996 Mini MK VI. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 350 kg more than 1996 Mini MK VI. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 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 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Mini MK VI, 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 Mazda MX-5 Miata (137 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mini MK VI. (69 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mini MK VI.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1996 Mini MK VI | |
Make | Mazda | Mini |
Model | MX-5 Miata | MK VI |
Year Released | 1989 | 1996 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1598 cc | 998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 116 HP | 41 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
Torque | 137 Nm | 69 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 2600 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 970 kg | 620 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3950 mm | 3060 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1450 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1360 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2040 mm |