2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1986 Mitsubishi Magna
To start off, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mitsubishi Magna. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mitsubishi Magna would be higher. At 2,555 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Mitsubishi Magna is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata (171 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1986 Mitsubishi Magna. (111 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1986 Mitsubishi Magna. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 190 kg more than 1986 Mitsubishi Magna. 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, 1986 Mitsubishi Magna, 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, 1986 Mitsubishi Magna (195 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1986 Mitsubishi Magna will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1986 Mitsubishi Magna | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Magna |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2555 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 171 HP | 111 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1220 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2600 mm |
