2009 Chevrolet Equinox vs. 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Equinox is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Equinox is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Equinox (264 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 148 more horse power than 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (116 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Equinox should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Equinox weights approximately 291 kg more than 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 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 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Equinox, 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, 2009 Chevrolet Equinox (340 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 203 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (137 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Equinox will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2009 Chevrolet Equinox has automatic transmission and 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Chevrolet Equinox will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Equinox | 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Equinox | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1989 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3600 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 264 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 340 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1261 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4800 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2270 mm |
