1976 Ford Taunus vs. 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Ford Taunus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Ford Taunus would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1976 Ford Taunus. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1976 Ford Taunus.
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, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Ford Taunus. (149 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Ford Taunus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Ford Taunus | 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Taunus | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1993 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 149 Nm | 188 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
