2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1986 Subaru XT
To start off, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Subaru XT. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Subaru XT would be higher. At 2,672 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Subaru XT is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Subaru XT (147 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Subaru XT should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Subaru XT weights approximately 193 kg more than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Subaru XT, 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, 1986 Subaru XT (211 Nm) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (170 Nm). This means 1986 Subaru XT will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1986 Subaru XT | |
| Make | Mazda | Subaru |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | XT |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1835 cc | 2672 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 147 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1085 kg | 1278 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3950 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 60 L |
