1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1986 Oldsmobile Cutlass
To start off, 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Oldsmobile Cutlass. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Oldsmobile Cutlass would be higher. At 2,474 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Oldsmobile Cutlass is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata (116 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1986 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1986 Oldsmobile Cutlass. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Oldsmobile Cutlass weights approximately 215 kg more than 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 1991 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 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Oldsmobile Cutlass, 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, 1986 Oldsmobile Cutlass (179 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (130 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1986 Oldsmobile Cutlass will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1986 Oldsmobile Cutlass | |
| Make | Mazda | Oldsmobile |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Cutlass |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2474 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 179 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 955 kg | 1170 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2640 mm |
