1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1983 Toyota Corolla
To start off, 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Toyota Corolla. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Toyota Corolla would be higher. At 1,587 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Toyota Corolla is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Toyota Corolla (122 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (112 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1983 Toyota Corolla should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 1998 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 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Toyota Corolla, 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, 1983 Toyota Corolla (143 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1983 Toyota Corolla will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1983 Toyota Corolla | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Corolla |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1587 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 112 HP | 122 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 143 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 75 L |
