1994 Mazda 323 vs. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,839 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata (110 HP) has 36 more horse power than 1994 Mazda 323. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1994 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 135 kg more than 1994 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata (241 Nm) has 138 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Mazda 323. (103 Nm). This means 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 Mazda 323 | 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 323 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1994 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1322 cc | 1839 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 110 HP |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 241 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 71 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 85.1 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 985 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2270 mm |
