2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass would be higher. At 2,834 cc (6 cylinders), 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (123 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass weights approximately 315 kg more than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2009 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 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass, 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, 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass (217 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (191 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass has automatic transmission and 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass | |
| Make | Mazda | Oldsmobile |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Cutlass |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2834 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 191 Nm | 217 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 1440 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2740 mm |
