1976 Ford Fiesta vs. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (158 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 119 more horse power than 1976 Ford Fiesta. (39 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1976 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 460 kg more than 1976 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1976 Ford Fiesta, 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, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (189 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Ford Fiesta. (64 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Ford Fiesta. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata has automatic transmission and 1976 Ford Fiesta has manual transmission. 1976 Ford Fiesta 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:
1976 Ford Fiesta | 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | Ford | Mazda |
Model | Fiesta | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 1976 | 2009 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 957 cc | 1999 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 39 HP | 158 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 7000 RPM |
Torque | 64 Nm | 189 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 87.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 55.7 mm | 83.1 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 715 kg | 1175 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 4030 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1260 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2340 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 50 L |