1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1981 Mazda 323
To start off, 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata (116 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1981 Mazda 323. (53 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1981 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 105 kg more than 1981 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata (131 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mazda 323. (79 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1981 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 323 |
| Year Released | 1993 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1069 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 79 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 955 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2370 mm |
