2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1989 Holden Apollo
To start off, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Holden Apollo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Holden Apollo would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Holden Apollo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata (155 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1989 Holden Apollo. (118 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1989 Holden Apollo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 466 kg more than 1989 Holden Apollo. 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, 1989 Holden Apollo, 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, both vehicles can yield 171 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 1989 Holden Apollo has automatic transmission and 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1989 Holden Apollo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1989 Holden Apollo | |
| Make | Mazda | Holden |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Apollo |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1835 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 155 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1671 kg | 1205 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2610 mm |
