1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1989 Volkswagen Quantum
To start off, 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Volkswagen Quantum. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Volkswagen Quantum would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Volkswagen Quantum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Volkswagen Quantum (109 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Volkswagen Quantum should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Volkswagen Quantum weights approximately 165 kg more than 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 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 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Volkswagen Quantum, 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, 1989 Volkswagen Quantum (173 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (129 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1989 Volkswagen Quantum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1989 Volkswagen Quantum | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Quantum |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 129 Nm | 173 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.1 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1130 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2560 mm |
