2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1986 Peugeot 309
To start off, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Peugeot 309. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Peugeot 309 would be higher. At 1,905 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Peugeot 309 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata (104 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1986 Peugeot 309. (67 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1986 Peugeot 309. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 126 kg more than 1986 Peugeot 309. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata (134 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Peugeot 309. (118 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Peugeot 309.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1986 Peugeot 309 | |
| Make | Mazda | Peugeot |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 309 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1905 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 67 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 118 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 23.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1116 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2480 mm |
