2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1989 Pontiac Grand Prix
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 Pontiac Grand Prix. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Pontiac Grand Prix would be higher. At 2,260 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Pontiac Grand Prix is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 158 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Pontiac Grand Prix weights approximately 340 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, 1989 Pontiac Grand Prix, 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, 1989 Pontiac Grand Prix (203 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1989 Pontiac Grand Prix will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1989 Pontiac Grand Prix | |
| Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Grand Prix |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2260 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | 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 | 1095 kg | 1435 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1250 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 76 L |
