2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1990 Vauxhall Nova
To start off, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Vauxhall Nova. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Vauxhall Nova would be higher. At 1,839 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata (140 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1990 Vauxhall Nova. (71 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1990 Vauxhall Nova. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 355 kg more than 1990 Vauxhall Nova. 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, 1990 Vauxhall Nova, 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 (160 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Vauxhall Nova. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Vauxhall Nova.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1990 Vauxhall Nova | |
| Make | Mazda | Vauxhall |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Nova |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1839 cc | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1550 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2350 mm |
