2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1988 Volvo 440
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volvo 440. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volvo 440 would be higher. At 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (124 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1988 Volvo 440. (109 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1988 Volvo 440. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 125 kg more than 1988 Volvo 440. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1988 Volvo 440, 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 MX-5 Miata (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volvo 440. (140 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volvo 440.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1988 Volvo 440 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 440 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 1721 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 81.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1155 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.3 L/100km | 8.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 80 L |
