2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1992 Volvo 480
To start off, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 Volvo 480. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 Volvo 480 would be higher. At 1,799 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 Volvo 480 (109 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (99 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1992 Volvo 480 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 53 kg more than 1992 Volvo 480.
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, 1992 Volvo 480, 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 (245 Nm) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Volvo 480. (140 Nm). This means 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Volvo 480.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1992 Volvo 480 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 480 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1992 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 99 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.1 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 1002 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2510 mm |
