2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1989 Pontiac Trans Sport
To start off, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Pontiac Trans Sport. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Pontiac Trans Sport would be higher. At 3,135 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Pontiac Trans Sport is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Pontiac Trans Sport (118 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (104 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Pontiac Trans Sport should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Pontiac Trans Sport weights approximately 384 kg more than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 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, 1989 Pontiac Trans Sport, 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 Pontiac Trans Sport (237 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (134 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1989 Pontiac Trans Sport will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 1989 Pontiac Trans Sport has automatic transmission and 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1989 Pontiac Trans Sport will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1989 Pontiac Trans Sport | |
Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
Model | MX-5 Miata | Trans Sport |
Year Released | 2003 | 1989 |
Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1596 cc | 3135 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 104 HP | 118 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Torque | 134 Nm | 237 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1116 kg | 1500 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4930 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1890 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1670 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2800 mm |