2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1988 Nissan Micra
To start off, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Nissan Micra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Nissan Micra would be higher. At 1,835 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata (155 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 1988 Nissan Micra. (49 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1988 Nissan Micra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 1006 kg more than 1988 Nissan Micra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 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 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Nissan Micra, 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, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata (171 Nm) has 98 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Nissan Micra. (73 Nm). This means 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Nissan Micra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1988 Nissan Micra | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Micra |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1835 cc | 988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 155 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 73 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1671 kg | 665 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 3770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1570 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2310 mm |
