1973 Mini MK III vs. 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA
To start off, 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mini MK III. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mini MK III would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA (165 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 131 more horse power than 1973 Mini MK III. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA should accelerate faster than 1973 Mini MK III. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA weights approximately 570 kg more than 1973 Mini MK III. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2013 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 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1973 Mini MK III, 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, 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mini MK III. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mini MK III.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Mini MK III | 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA | |
| Make | Mini | Mazda |
| Model | MK III | MX-5 MIATA |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 848 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 61 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 612 kg | 1182 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 4032 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1255 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2330 mm |
