2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1992 Pontiac Sunbird
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 Pontiac Sunbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 Pontiac Sunbird would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1992 Pontiac Sunbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (124 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1992 Pontiac Sunbird. (111 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1992 Pontiac Sunbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 23 kg more than 1992 Pontiac Sunbird. 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, 1992 Pontiac Sunbird, 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, 1992 Pontiac Sunbird (252 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1992 Pontiac Sunbird 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 | 1992 Pontiac Sunbird | |
| Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Sunbird |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1992 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 111 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 252 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 86 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1127 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2580 mm |
