2008 Fiat 500 vs. 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2008 Fiat 500 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata (116 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 2008 Fiat 500. (73 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2008 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 25 kg more than 2008 Fiat 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1993 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 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Fiat 500, 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, both vehicles can yield 131 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Fiat 500 | 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | 500 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1993 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1368 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 73 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 131 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 72 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3550 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 35 L | 50 L |
