2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1983 Honda Ballade
To start off, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Honda Ballade. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Honda Ballade would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata (170 HP) has 103 more horse power than 1983 Honda Ballade. (67 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1983 Honda Ballade. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 625 kg more than 1983 Honda Ballade. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 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 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Honda Ballade, 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, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Honda Ballade. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Honda Ballade.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1983 Honda Ballade | |
| Make | Mazda | Honda |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Ballade |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1335 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 67 HP |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2330 mm |
