1994 Mazda 323 vs. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 14 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 1,995 cc (6 cylinders), 1994 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Mazda 323 (145 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1994 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 Mazda 323 weights approximately 55 kg more than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1994 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, 1994 Mazda 323 (183 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1994 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 Mazda 323 | 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 323 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1994 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.6 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 203 km/hour | 196 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1210 kg | 1155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 50 L |
