1971 Dodge Challenger vs. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Dodge Challenger. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Dodge Challenger would be higher. At 3,685 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Dodge Challenger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata (138 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1971 Dodge Challenger. (123 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1971 Dodge Challenger. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Dodge Challenger weights approximately 445 kg more than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
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, 1971 Dodge Challenger (233 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (162 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1971 Dodge Challenger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Dodge Challenger | 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Dodge | Mazda |
| Model | Challenger | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3685 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 233 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1940 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2270 mm |
