2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1984 Toyota Carina
To start off, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Toyota Carina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Toyota Carina 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 (159 HP) has 92 more horse power than 1984 Toyota Carina. (67 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1984 Toyota Carina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 75 kg more than 1984 Toyota Carina. 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, 1984 Toyota Carina, 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 (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Toyota Carina. (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Toyota Carina.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1984 Toyota Carina | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Carina |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1984 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1973 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 159 HP | 67 HP |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 121 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 85 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1155 kg | 1080 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2520 mm |
