1989 Toyota Corolla vs. 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata

To start off, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Toyota Corolla. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Toyota Corolla would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 HP) has 104 more horse power than 1989 Toyota Corolla. (63 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1989 Toyota Corolla. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 45 kg more than 1989 Toyota Corolla. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2012 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 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Toyota Corolla, 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, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Toyota Corolla. (110 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Toyota Corolla.

Compare all specifications:

1989 Toyota Corolla 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata
Make Toyota Mazda
Model Corolla MX-5 Miata
Year Released 1989 2012
Body Type Sedan Convertible
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1839 cc 2000 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 63 HP 167 HP
Torque 110 Nm 190 Nm
Torque RPM 2600 RPM 5000 RPM
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual 5-speed manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1080 kg 1125 kg
Vehicle Length 4200 mm 3995 mm
Vehicle Width 1660 mm 1720 mm
Vehicle Height 1370 mm 1245 mm
Wheelbase Size 2440 mm 2329 mm


 

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