2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1986 Mercury Lynx
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mercury Lynx. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mercury Lynx would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1986 Mercury Lynx. (89 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1986 Mercury Lynx. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 70 kg more than 1986 Mercury Lynx. 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, 1986 Mercury Lynx, 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 (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Mercury Lynx. (144 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Mercury Lynx.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1986 Mercury Lynx | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercury |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Lynx |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1859 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 144 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1250 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2400 mm |
