2006 Fiat Palio II vs. 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2006 Fiat Palio II is newer by 17 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 1,697 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Fiat Palio II is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata (116 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 2006 Fiat Palio II. (68 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2006 Fiat Palio II. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Fiat Palio II weights approximately 355 kg more than 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
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, 2006 Fiat Palio II, 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, 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata (137 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Fiat Palio II. (135 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Fiat Palio II.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Fiat Palio II | 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | Palio II | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1697 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.2 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1325 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1700 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2270 mm |
