1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2006 Toyota 4Runner
To start off, 2006 Toyota 4Runner is newer by 17 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 4,671 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Toyota 4Runner is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Toyota 4Runner (261 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 145 more horse power than 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (116 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Toyota 4Runner should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Toyota 4Runner weights approximately 240 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 2006 Toyota 4Runner is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Toyota 4Runner will offer significantly more control. 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 Toyota 4Runner (415 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 278 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (137 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2006 Toyota 4Runner 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 | 2006 Toyota 4Runner | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 4Runner |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 4671 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 261 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 415 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 970 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3950 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1810 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2800 mm |
