1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1989 Vauxhall Nova
To start off, 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Vauxhall Nova. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Vauxhall Nova would be higher. At 1,839 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata (138 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1989 Vauxhall Nova. (44 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1989 Vauxhall Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 285 kg more than 1989 Vauxhall Nova. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1989 Vauxhall Nova, 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, 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata (162 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 93 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Vauxhall Nova. (69 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Vauxhall Nova.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1989 Vauxhall Nova | |
| Make | Mazda | Vauxhall |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Nova |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1839 cc | 993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 44 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 69 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 740 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1550 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2350 mm |
