1976 Holden Sunbird vs. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 32 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 2,832 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Holden Sunbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1976 Holden Sunbird. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 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 50 kg more than 2008 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, 1976 Holden Sunbird (224 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1976 Holden Sunbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Holden Sunbird | 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Holden | Mazda |
| Model | Sunbird | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2832 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 188 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1145 kg | 1095 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1250 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2340 mm |
