2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1989 Nissan Bluebird

To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Nissan Bluebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Nissan Bluebird would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1989 Nissan Bluebird. (81 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1989 Nissan Bluebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 115 kg more than 1989 Nissan Bluebird. 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, 1989 Nissan Bluebird, 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 (191 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Nissan Bluebird. (126 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Nissan Bluebird.

Compare all specifications:

2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata 1989 Nissan Bluebird
Make Mazda Nissan
Model MX-5 Miata Bluebird
Year Released 2009 1989
Body Type Convertible Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1999 cc 1597 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 167 HP 81 HP
Engine RPM 7000 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 191 Nm 126 Nm
Torque RPM 5000 RPM 3200 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Doors 2 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1125 kg 1010 kg
Vehicle Length 4000 mm 4380 mm
Vehicle Width 1730 mm 1700 mm
Vehicle Height 1250 mm 1410 mm
Wheelbase Size 2340 mm 2560 mm