1975 Austin 1800 vs. 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Austin 1800. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Austin 1800 would be higher. At 1,799 cc (4 cylinders), 1975 Austin 1800 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata (110 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1975 Austin 1800. (86 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1975 Austin 1800. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1975 Austin 1800 weights approximately 110 kg more than 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2000 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 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1975 Austin 1800, 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, 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata (161 Nm) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Austin 1800. (140 Nm). This means 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Austin 1800.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 Austin 1800 | 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Austin | Mazda |
| Model | 1800 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1975 | 2000 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 161 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.3 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.9 mm | 85.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1080 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 58 L |
