1968 Datsun 1800 vs. 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Datsun 1800. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Datsun 1800 would be higher. At 1,816 cc (4 cylinders), 1968 Datsun 1800 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata (116 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1968 Datsun 1800. (106 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1968 Datsun 1800. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 4 kg more than 1968 Datsun 1800. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1968 Datsun 1800 (156 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (137 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1968 Datsun 1800 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Datsun 1800 | 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Datsun | Mazda |
| Model | 1800 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1968 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1816 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 156 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Top Speed | 166 km/hour | 188 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2270 mm |
