2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1983 Toyota Corolla
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Toyota Corolla. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Toyota Corolla would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (166 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 1983 Toyota Corolla. (83 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1983 Toyota Corolla. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 512 kg more than 1983 Toyota Corolla. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Toyota Corolla, 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 Mazda MX-5 Miata (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Toyota Corolla. (118 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Toyota Corolla.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1983 Toyota Corolla | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Corolla |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1453 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 166 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 118 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1332 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 50 L |
