2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1990 Volvo 460
To start off, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Volvo 460. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Volvo 460 would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata (170 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1990 Volvo 460. (120 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1990 Volvo 460.
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, 1990 Volvo 460, 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, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Volvo 460. (175 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Volvo 460.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1990 Volvo 460 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 460 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 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 | 170 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.4 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 8.1:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 60 L |
