1968 Isuzu 117 vs. 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Isuzu 117. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Isuzu 117 would be higher. At 1,839 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata (142 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1968 Isuzu 117. (100 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1968 Isuzu 117. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 616 kg more than 1968 Isuzu 117. 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, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata (168 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Isuzu 117. (144 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Isuzu 117.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Isuzu 117 | 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Isuzu | Mazda |
| Model | 117 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1968 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1818 cc | 1839 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 142 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.7:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 1671 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 50 L |
