1969 Fiat 128 vs. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 Fiat 128. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 Fiat 128 would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 1969 Fiat 128. (54 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1969 Fiat 128. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 135 kg more than 1969 Fiat 128. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1969 Fiat 128, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 113 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Fiat 128. (77 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Fiat 128.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Fiat 128 | 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | 128 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1969 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1115 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 54 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 77 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 8.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 825 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3870 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 38 L | 48 L |
