2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1988 Mitsubishi Magna
To start off, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Mitsubishi Magna. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Mitsubishi Magna would be higher. At 2,555 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Mitsubishi Magna is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata (158 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1988 Mitsubishi Magna. (112 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1988 Mitsubishi Magna. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Mitsubishi Magna weights approximately 13 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, 1988 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, 1988 Mitsubishi Magna (195 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (189 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1988 Mitsubishi Magna will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 1988 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. 1988 Mitsubishi Magna will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1988 Mitsubishi Magna | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Magna |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2555 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 112 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 189 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1207 kg | 1220 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2600 mm |
