1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2003 Nissan Maxima
To start off, 2003 Nissan Maxima is newer by 14 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 1,995 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Nissan Maxima (138 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (116 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 445 kg more than 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 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, 2003 Nissan Maxima, 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, 2003 Nissan Maxima (181 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (137 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2003 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2003 Nissan Maxima | |
Make | Mazda | Nissan |
Model | MX-5 Miata | Maxima |
Year Released | 1989 | 2003 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1995 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 116 HP | 138 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6400 RPM |
Torque | 137 Nm | 181 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 970 kg | 1415 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3950 mm | 4930 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2760 mm |