2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1992 Mitsubishi Magna
To start off, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 Mitsubishi Magna. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 Mitsubishi Magna would be higher. At 2,554 cc (4 cylinders), 1992 Mitsubishi Magna is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1992 Mitsubishi Magna. (114 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1992 Mitsubishi Magna. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 Mitsubishi Magna weights approximately 210 kg more than 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2012 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 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1992 Mitsubishi Magna, 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 Mitsubishi Magna (198 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1992 Mitsubishi Magna will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 1992 Mitsubishi Magna has automatic transmission and 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1992 Mitsubishi Magna will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1992 Mitsubishi Magna | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Magna |
| Year Released | 2012 | 1992 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2000 cc | 2554 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 198 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | 5-speed manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 1335 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3995 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1245 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2329 mm | 2730 mm |
