Japan vs Japan — 2002 vs 1989
| MX-5 NB 1.8 VVT | Familia GT-R BG8Z | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 146 hp | 210 hp |
| Torque | 123 lb-ft | 184 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,839 cc | 1,840 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 7.5 sec | 6.0 sec |
| Top Speed | 130 mph | 143 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 15.8 sec | 14.4 sec |
| Weight | 2,348 lbs | 2,601 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,265 mm | 2,500 mm |
| Length | 3,955 mm | 4,030 mm |
| Units Produced | 289,000 | 5,000 |
| Original MSRP | $22,300 | — |
| Value (Excellent) | $18,000 | $55,000 |
| Collectibility | 6/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 3/10 | 8/10 |
The 1989 Mazda Familia GT-R BG8Z emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 2002 Mazda MX-5 NB 1.8 VVT counters with lighter weight, better value, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.
The 2002 Mazda MX-5 NB 1.8 VVT and 1989 Mazda Familia GT-R BG8Z share a manufacturer in Mazda, but that's where the similarities get interesting. These two models reveal the versatility and ambition of the Mazda brand. The 1989 Mazda Familia GT-R BG8Z holds a clear advantage in raw power with 210 hp compared to 146 hp, a 64-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Mazda MX-5 uses a Inline-4 DOHC displacing 1,839 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 7.5 seconds. The Mazda MX-5 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 253 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's 289,000 examples. On the collector market, the 1989 Mazda Familia GT-R BG8Z commands a significant premium over the 2002 Mazda MX-5 NB 1.8 VVT, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1989 Mazda Familia GT-R BG8Z rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.