2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass
To start off, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata (178 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (163 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass weights approximately 53 kg more than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
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, 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass, 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, 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass (237 Nm) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (225 Nm). This means 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass 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 | 1988 Oldsmobile Cutlass | |
| Make | Mazda | Oldsmobile |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Cutlass |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1835 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 178 HP | 163 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 237 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1147 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2640 mm |
