1999 Mazda 323 vs. 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 1999 Mazda 323 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata (116 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1999 Mazda 323. (74 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1999 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mazda 323 weights approximately 177 kg more than 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 1989 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 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata (137 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mazda 323. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Mazda 323 | 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 323 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 71 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1147 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2270 mm |
