2008 Chrysler Sebring vs. 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2008 Chrysler Sebring 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 2,736 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Chrysler Sebring is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chrysler Sebring (189 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (116 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chrysler Sebring should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chrysler Sebring weights approximately 845 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 1989 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 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Chrysler Sebring, 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, 2008 Chrysler Sebring (259 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 122 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (137 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2008 Chrysler Sebring will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2008 Chrysler Sebring 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 Chrysler Sebring will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chrysler Sebring | 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mazda |
| Model | Sebring | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2736 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 259 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1815 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4930 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2270 mm |
