1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1986 Buick Century
To start off, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Buick Century. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Buick Century would be higher. At 3,800 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Buick Century is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Buick Century (150 HP) has 12 more horse power than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (138 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Buick Century should accelerate faster than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 1999 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 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Buick Century, 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, 1986 Buick Century (270 Nm) has 108 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (162 Nm). This means 1986 Buick Century will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 1986 Buick Century has automatic transmission and 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 Buick Century will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1986 Buick Century | |
| Make | Mazda | Buick |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Century |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 3800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 150 HP |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4803 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1763 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1364 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2662 mm |
