1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1986 Subaru XT
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 Subaru XT. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Subaru XT would be higher. At 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata (138 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1986 Subaru XT. (134 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1986 Subaru XT. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Subaru XT weights approximately 135 kg more than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 1986 Subaru XT is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Subaru XT will offer significantly more control. 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 Subaru XT (196 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (162 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1986 Subaru XT will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1986 Subaru XT | |
| Make | Mazda | Subaru |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | XT |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 1779 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 196 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 67 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 205 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 60 L |
