2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1994 Toyota Corolla
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Toyota Corolla. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Toyota Corolla would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (159 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1994 Toyota Corolla. (105 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1994 Toyota Corolla. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 65 kg more than 1994 Toyota Corolla. 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, 1994 Toyota Corolla, 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 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Toyota Corolla. (135 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Toyota Corolla.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1994 Toyota Corolla | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Corolla |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1994 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1587 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 159 HP | 105 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1155 kg | 1090 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2470 mm |
