1974 Honda 1300 vs. 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Honda 1300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Honda 1300 would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata (104 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1974 Honda 1300. (81 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1974 Honda 1300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 221 kg more than 1974 Honda 1300. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 Honda 1300, 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, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata (134 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Honda 1300. (105 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Honda 1300.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Honda 1300 | 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Honda | Mazda |
| Model | 1300 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1298 cc | 1596 cc |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 895 kg | 1116 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2200 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 35 L | 50 L |
