1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1990 Mazda 323
To start off, 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 1 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 1,720 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata (116 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1990 Mazda 323. (56 HP @ 4300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1990 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Mazda 323 weights approximately 25 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, 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, 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata (130 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Mazda 323. (114 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1990 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 323 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1720 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 56 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 114 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 955 kg | 980 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2460 mm |
