2005 Lancia Zeta vs. 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2005 Lancia Zeta is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Lancia Zeta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Lancia Zeta (135 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (116 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Lancia Zeta should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Lancia Zeta weights approximately 630 kg more than 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 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 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Lancia Zeta, 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 Lancia Zeta (186 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (137 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2005 Lancia Zeta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Lancia Zeta | 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Lancia | Mazda |
| Model | Zeta | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1600 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1720 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2270 mm |
