1974 Fiat 124 vs. 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Fiat 124. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Fiat 124 would be higher. At 1,839 cc (4 cylinders), 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata (99 HP) has 40 more horse power than 1974 Fiat 124. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1974 Fiat 124. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 875 kg more than 1974 Fiat 124. 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, 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata (230 Nm) has 143 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 124. (87 Nm). This means 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Fiat 124.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Fiat 124 | 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | 124 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2000 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1197 cc | 1839 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 99 HP |
| Torque | 87 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 910 kg | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4050 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2270 mm |
