2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1990 Peugeot 309
To start off, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Peugeot 309. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Peugeot 309 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 64 more horse power than 1990 Peugeot 309. (91 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1990 Peugeot 309. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 781 kg more than 1990 Peugeot 309. 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, 1990 Peugeot 309, 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 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Peugeot 309. (135 Nm). This means 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Peugeot 309. 1990 Peugeot 309 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. 1990 Peugeot 309 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1990 Peugeot 309 | |
| Make | Mazda | Peugeot |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 309 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1835 cc | 1580 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 155 HP | 91 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.1 mm | 73 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1671 kg | 890 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2480 mm |
