1990 Mazda 323 vs. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata (138 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1990 Mazda 323. (74 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1990 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 100 kg more than 1990 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 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 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 Mazda 323, 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, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata (162 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Mazda 323. (104 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Mazda 323 | 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 323 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1990 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 71.1 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 85 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 925 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 50 L |
