Mazda MX-5 Miata

vs

Mazda Familia GT-R

Japan vs Japan — 1989 vs 1989

Mazda MX-5 Miata (1989)
Mazda Familia GT-R (1989)
Specifications
MX-5 Miata NA 1.6Familia GT-R BG8Z
Horsepower116 hp210 hp
Torque100 lb-ft184 lb-ft
Engine Size1,597 cc1,840 cc
0-60 mph8.6 sec6.0 sec
Top Speed122 mph143 mph
¼ Mile16.2 sec14.4 sec
Weight2,116 lbs2,601 lbs
Wheelbase2,265 mm2,500 mm
Length3,970 mm4,030 mm
Units Produced431,5065,000
Original MSRP$13,800
Value (Excellent)$25,000$55,000
Collectibility7/108/10
Rarity3/108/10
The Verdict

Numbers favor the 1989 Mazda Familia GT-R BG8Z with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata NA 1.6 offers lighter weight, better value, and has its own devoted following. For those who let their heart decide, either car delivers a rewarding ownership experience.

Overview

Mazda has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata NA 1.6 with the 1989 Mazda Familia GT-R BG8Z highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 1989 Mazda Familia GT-R BG8Z holds a clear advantage in raw power with 210 hp compared to 116 hp, a 94-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 Familia GT-R relies on a Inline-4 DOHC Turbocharged with 1,840 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1989 Mazda Familia GT-R BG8Z edges ahead at 6.0 seconds versus 8.6 seconds. The Mazda MX-5 Miata carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 485 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 5,000 units built, the 1989 Mazda Familia GT-R BG8Z is considerably scarcer than the Mazda MX-5 Miata's 431,506 examples. On the collector market, the 1989 Mazda Familia GT-R BG8Z commands a significant premium over the 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata NA 1.6, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.