1991 Mazda 323 vs. 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA
To start off, 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Mazda 323 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 91 more horse power than 1991 Mazda 323. (74 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA should accelerate faster than 1991 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA weights approximately 257 kg more than 1991 Mazda 323. 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, 1991 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, 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Mazda 323. (104 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Mazda 323 | 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 323 | MX-5 MIATA |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 925 kg | 1182 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4032 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1255 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2330 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 48 L |
