1972 Holden Torana vs. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Holden Torana. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Holden Torana would be higher. At 2,261 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 Holden Torana is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (159 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1972 Holden Torana. (94 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1972 Holden Torana. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 216 kg more than 1972 Holden Torana. 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, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Holden Torana. (163 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Holden Torana.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Holden Torana | 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Holden | Mazda |
| Model | Torana | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2261 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 159 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 163 Nm | 188 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 954 kg | 1170 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2340 mm |
