1974 Holden Torana vs. 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Holden Torana. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Holden Torana would be higher. At 4,143 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Holden Torana is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Holden Torana (182 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (178 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Holden Torana should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Holden Torana weights approximately 63 kg more than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 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, 1974 Holden Torana (356 Nm) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (220 Nm). This means 1974 Holden Torana will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Holden Torana | 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Holden | Mazda |
| Model | Torana | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4143 cc | 1835 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 178 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 356 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1210 kg | 1147 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2270 mm |
