2008 Mazda 3 vs. 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata (116 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 2008 Mazda 3. (83 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 3 weights approximately 185 kg more than 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
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 Mazda 3, 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, 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata (137 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (124 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Mazda 3 | 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | 3 | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 2008 | 1989 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1349 cc | 1598 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 83 HP | 116 HP |
Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 124 Nm | 137 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Top Speed | 164 km/hour | 188 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1155 kg | 970 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 3950 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1680 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1230 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2270 mm |