2008 Chevrolet Tahoe vs. 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2008 Chevrolet Tahoe is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 5,328 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Chevrolet Tahoe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chevrolet Tahoe (285 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 169 more horse power than 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (116 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chevrolet Tahoe should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chevrolet Tahoe weights approximately 1449 kg more than 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Chevrolet Tahoe is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Chevrolet Tahoe will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Chevrolet Tahoe (427 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 290 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (137 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2008 Chevrolet Tahoe will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2008 Chevrolet Tahoe has automatic transmission and 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Chevrolet Tahoe will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chevrolet Tahoe | 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Tahoe | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1989 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5328 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 285 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 427 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Top Speed | 170 km/hour | 188 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2419 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2070 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1970 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2270 mm |
