2005 Kia Spectra vs. 1992 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2005 Kia Spectra is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 1992 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 Mazda MX-5 Miata (116 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 2005 Kia Spectra. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1992 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2005 Kia Spectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Kia Spectra weights approximately 139 kg more than 1992 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 1992 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 1992 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Kia Spectra, 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, 2005 Kia Spectra (145 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (136 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2005 Kia Spectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Kia Spectra | 1992 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Kia | Mazda |
| Model | Spectra | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1992 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1594 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 136 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.4 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1094 kg | 955 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 50 L |
