1992 Holden Nova vs. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 Holden Nova. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 Holden Nova would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (158 HP) has 77 more horse power than 1992 Holden Nova. (81 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1992 Holden Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 140 kg more than 1992 Holden Nova. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1992 Holden Nova, 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, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Holden Nova. (118 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Holden Nova.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 Holden Nova | 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Holden | Mazda |
| Model | Nova | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1992 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1397 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 158 HP |
| Torque | 118 Nm | 188 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1015 kg | 1155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2340 mm |
