1993 Mazda 323 vs. 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata (124 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1993 Mazda 323. (74 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1993 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 130 kg more than 1993 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1993 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, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1993 Mazda 323. (104 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1993 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1993 Mazda 323 | 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 323 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1993 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1323 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 925 kg | 1055 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 50 L |
