1991 Toyota Starlet vs. 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Toyota Starlet. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Toyota Starlet would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata (159 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 1991 Toyota Starlet. (53 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1991 Toyota Starlet. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 425 kg more than 1991 Toyota Starlet. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 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 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 Toyota Starlet, 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, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Toyota Starlet. (77 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Toyota Starlet. 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata has automatic transmission and 1991 Toyota Starlet has manual transmission. 1991 Toyota Starlet will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1991 Toyota Starlet | 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | Toyota | Mazda |
Model | Starlet | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 1991 | 2006 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 997 cc | 1999 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 53 HP | 159 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6700 RPM |
Torque | 77 Nm | 188 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 730 kg | 1155 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3730 mm | 4000 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1250 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2340 mm |