2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1989 Rover 216
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 Rover 216. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Rover 216 would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Rover 216 (114 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (104 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Rover 216 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 36 kg more than 1989 Rover 216.
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 Rover 216, 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 Rover 216 (141 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (134 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1989 Rover 216 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 | 1989 Rover 216 | |
| Make | Mazda | Rover |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 216 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1590 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 141 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.1:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1116 kg | 1080 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1950 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2550 mm |
