1989 Volvo 440 vs. 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA
To start off, 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Volvo 440. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Volvo 440 would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA (165 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1989 Volvo 440. (120 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA should accelerate faster than 1989 Volvo 440. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA weights approximately 122 kg more than 1989 Volvo 440. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2013 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 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Volvo 440, 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, 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Volvo 440. (175 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Volvo 440.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Volvo 440 | 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA | |
| Make | Volvo | Mazda |
| Model | 440 | MX-5 MIATA |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1721 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.1 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.1:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1182 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4032 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1255 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2330 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 48 L |
