2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1990 Mazda 323
To start off, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Mazda 323 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 (171 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1990 Mazda 323. (56 HP @ 4300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1990 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 430 kg more than 1990 Mazda 323. 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, 1990 Mazda 323, 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 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Mazda 323. (114 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1990 Mazda 323 | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | MX-5 Miata | 323 |
Year Released | 2006 | 1990 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1720 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 171 HP | 56 HP |
Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 4300 RPM |
Torque | 190 Nm | 114 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 980 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4040 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1680 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1390 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2460 mm |