2009 Kia Optima vs. 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2009 Kia Optima is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 2,656 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Optima (194 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (116 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Kia Optima weights approximately 564 kg more than 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1994 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 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Kia Optima, 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 Kia Optima (250 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (130 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2009 Kia Optima has automatic transmission and 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Kia Optima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Kia Optima | 1994 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Kia | Mazda |
| Model | Optima | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1994 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2656 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 194 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.4:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1519 kg | 955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 50 L |
