2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1987 Mini MK V
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Mini MK V. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Mini MK V would be higher. At 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (140 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 1987 Mini MK V. (41 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1987 Mini MK V. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 515 kg more than 1987 Mini MK V. 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, 1987 Mini MK V, 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 (168 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Mini MK V. (71 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Mini MK V.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1987 Mini MK V | |
| Make | Mazda | Mini |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | MK V |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 41 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 71 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 625 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 3060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2040 mm |
