1974 Holden Torana vs. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 35 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 24 more horse power than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (158 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Holden Torana should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Holden Torana weights approximately 35 kg more than 2009 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 @ 2400 RPM) has 167 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (189 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1974 Holden Torana will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata has automatic transmission and 1974 Holden Torana has manual transmission. 1974 Holden Torana will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Holden Torana | 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Holden | Mazda |
| Model | Torana | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4143 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 356 Nm | 189 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1210 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2340 mm |
