2009 Hyundai Azera vs. 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2009 Hyundai Azera 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 3,778 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Hyundai Azera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Hyundai Azera (263 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 147 more horse power than 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (116 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Hyundai Azera should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
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 Hyundai Azera, 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 Hyundai Azera (348 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 211 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (137 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2009 Hyundai Azera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2009 Hyundai Azera 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 Hyundai Azera will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Hyundai Azera | 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Hyundai | Mazda |
| Model | Azera | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3778 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 263 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 348 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2790 mm | 2270 mm |
