2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1989 Mazda 323
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 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mazda 323 would be higher. Both 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata and 1989 Mazda 323 are equipped with a 1,840 cc engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda 323 (140 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (134 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 19 kg more than 1989 Mazda 323.
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 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 323 (164 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (163 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1989 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1989 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 323 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 163 Nm | 164 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1065 kg | 1046 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 50 L |
