2009 Mazda 6 vs. 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2009 Mazda 6 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata (116 HP) has 12 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 6. (104 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 15 kg more than 2009 Mazda 6. 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 Mazda 6, 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 Mazda 6 (145 Nm) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (137 Nm). This means 2009 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 6 | 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 6 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 116 HP |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 188 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 955 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2270 mm |
