2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1989 Toyota Corolla
To start off, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Toyota Corolla. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Toyota Corolla 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 (160 HP) has 97 more horse power than 1989 Toyota Corolla. (63 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1989 Toyota Corolla.
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, 1989 Toyota Corolla, 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 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Toyota Corolla. (110 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Toyota Corolla.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1989 Toyota Corolla | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Corolla |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1839 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 63 HP |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3990 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2440 mm |
