1975 Austin Maxi vs. 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Austin Maxi. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Austin Maxi would be higher. At 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata (134 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1975 Austin Maxi. (69 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1975 Austin Maxi. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 160 kg more than 1975 Austin Maxi. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1975 Austin Maxi, 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, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata (169 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Austin Maxi. (104 Nm @ 3100 RPM). This means 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Austin Maxi.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 Austin Maxi | 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Austin | Mazda |
| Model | Maxi | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1975 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1483 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3100 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 980 kg | 1140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 50 L |
