1990 Mazda 323 vs. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 11 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), 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata (134 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1990 Mazda 323. (56 HP @ 4300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1990 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 85 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 2001 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 2001 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, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata (163 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Mazda 323. (114 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Mazda 323. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata has automatic transmission and 1990 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1990 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1990 Mazda 323 | 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | 323 | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 1990 | 2001 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1720 cc | 1840 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 56 HP | 134 HP |
Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 114 Nm | 163 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 1065 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 |