2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1986 Mitsubishi Magna
To start off, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 21 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, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata (166 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1986 Mitsubishi Magna. (111 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1986 Mitsubishi Magna. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Mitsubishi Magna weights approximately 40 kg more than 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2007 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 2007 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 2007 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 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 1986 Mitsubishi Magna has automatic transmission and 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 Mitsubishi Magna will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1986 Mitsubishi Magna | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Magna |
| Year Released | 2007 | 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 | 166 HP | 111 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 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 |
