1976 Holden Sunbird vs. 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Holden Sunbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Holden Sunbird would be higher. At 1,897 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Holden Sunbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata (178 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1976 Holden Sunbird. (97 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1976 Holden Sunbird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Holden Sunbird weights approximately 13 kg more than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
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, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata (220 Nm) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Holden Sunbird. (157 Nm). This means 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Holden Sunbird.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Holden Sunbird | 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Holden | Mazda |
| Model | Sunbird | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1897 cc | 1835 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 97 HP | 178 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1147 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2270 mm |
