Japan vs Japan — 1989 vs 1992
| MX-5 Miata NA 1.6 | RX-7 Spirit R Type A | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 116 hp | 280 hp |
| Torque | 100 lb-ft | 232 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,597 cc | 1,308 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 8.6 sec | 5.0 sec |
| Top Speed | 122 mph | 161 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 16.2 sec | 13.5 sec |
| Weight | 2,116 lbs | — |
| Wheelbase | 2,265 mm | 2,425 mm |
| Length | 3,970 mm | 4,285 mm |
| Units Produced | 431,506 | 1,500 |
| Original MSRP | $13,800 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $25,000 | $120,000 |
| Collectibility | 7/10 | 5/10 |
| Rarity | 3/10 | 8/10 |
Numbers favor the 1992 Mazda RX-7 Spirit R Type A with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata NA 1.6 offers stronger collectibility, better value, and has its own devoted following. For those who let their heart decide, either car delivers a rewarding ownership experience.
Mazda has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata NA 1.6 with the 1992 Mazda RX-7 Spirit R Type A highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 1992 Mazda RX-7 Spirit R Type A holds a clear advantage in raw power with 280 hp compared to 116 hp, a 164-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Mazda MX-5 Miata uses a Inline-4 DOHC B6ZE displacing 1,597 cc, while the Mazda RX-7 relies on a Twin-Rotor Twin-Turbo Wankel with 1,308 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1992 Mazda RX-7 Spirit R Type A edges ahead at 5.0 seconds versus 8.6 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 1,500 units built, the 1992 Mazda RX-7 Spirit R Type A is considerably scarcer than the Mazda MX-5 Miata's 431,506 examples. On the collector market, the 1992 Mazda RX-7 Spirit R Type A commands a significant premium over the 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata NA 1.6, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata NA 1.6 rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.