2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1989 Toyota Celica
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 Toyota Celica. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Toyota Celica would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Toyota Celica (201 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (158 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Toyota Celica should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Toyota Celica weights approximately 345 kg more than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 Toyota Celica is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Toyota Celica will offer significantly more control. 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 Toyota Celica (275 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (189 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1989 Toyota Celica will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata has automatic transmission and 1989 Toyota Celica has manual transmission. 1989 Toyota Celica will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1989 Toyota Celica | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Celica |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 189 Nm | 275 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 86 mm |
| Top Speed | 194 km/hour | 230 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.9 seconds | 7.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1520 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2330 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 50 L |
