2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1991 Rover 820
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Rover 820. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Rover 820 would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Rover 820 (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (166 HP @ 6700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Rover 820 should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Rover 820 weights approximately 76 kg more than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 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, 1991 Rover 820, 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, 1991 Rover 820 (215 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1991 Rover 820 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1991 Rover 820 | |
| Make | Mazda | Rover |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 820 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 166 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 215 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2000 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 | 1408 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 68 L |
