2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1988 Seat Marbella
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 Seat Marbella. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Seat Marbella would be higher. At 1,835 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata (178 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 143 more horse power than 1988 Seat Marbella. (35 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1988 Seat Marbella. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 467 kg more than 1988 Seat Marbella. 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, 1988 Seat Marbella, 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 Mazda MX-5 Miata (225 Nm) has 169 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Seat Marbella. (56 Nm). This means 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Seat Marbella.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1988 Seat Marbella | |
| Make | Mazda | Seat |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Marbella |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1835 cc | 843 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 178 HP | 35 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 56 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1147 kg | 680 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 3480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1510 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2170 mm |
