2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1989 Mitsubishi Minica
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mitsubishi Minica. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mitsubishi Minica would be higher. At 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (124 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1989 Mitsubishi Minica. (30 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1989 Mitsubishi Minica. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 515 kg more than 1989 Mitsubishi Minica. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 Mitsubishi Minica is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Mitsubishi Minica will offer significantly more control. 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 (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mitsubishi Minica. (42 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mitsubishi Minica.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1989 Mitsubishi Minica | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Minica |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 548 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 30 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 42 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1155 kg | 640 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 3200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1400 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2270 mm |
