2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1992 Plymouth Colt

To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 Plymouth Colt. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 Plymouth Colt 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 33 more horse power than 1992 Plymouth Colt. (91 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1992 Plymouth Colt. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 155 kg more than 1992 Plymouth 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, 1992 Plymouth 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 (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Plymouth Colt. (123 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Plymouth Colt.

Compare all specifications:

2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata 1992 Plymouth Colt
Make Mazda Plymouth
Model MX-5 Miata Colt
Year Released 2008 1992
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1798 cc 1466 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 124 HP 91 HP
Engine RPM 6500 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 167 Nm 123 Nm
Torque RPM 4500 RPM 3000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Vehicle Weight 1155 kg 1000 kg
Vehicle Length 4000 mm 4040 mm
Vehicle Width 1730 mm 1680 mm
Vehicle Height 1250 mm 1330 mm
Wheelbase Size 2340 mm 2400 mm