2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1987 Subaru XT
To start off, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Subaru XT. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Subaru XT would be higher. At 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata (139 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1987 Subaru XT. (135 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1987 Subaru XT. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Subaru XT weights approximately 20 kg more than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 1987 Subaru XT is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Subaru XT will offer significantly more control. 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, 1987 Subaru XT (196 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (168 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1987 Subaru XT will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1987 Subaru XT | |
| Make | Mazda | Subaru |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | XT |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 196 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 60 L |
