2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1986 Mitsubishi Colt
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 Mitsubishi Colt. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mitsubishi Colt 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 (158 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 1986 Mitsubishi Colt. (57 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1986 Mitsubishi Colt. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 162 kg more than 1986 Mitsubishi Colt. 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 Mitsubishi Colt, 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 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Mitsubishi Colt. (108 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Mitsubishi Colt.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1986 Mitsubishi Colt | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Colt |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1795 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 57 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1098 kg | 936 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 3880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2390 mm |
