1976 Holden Torana 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 Torana. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Holden Torana would be higher. At 1,897 cc (4 cylinders), 1976 Holden Torana is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (124 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1976 Holden Torana. (102 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1976 Holden Torana. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 45 kg more than 1976 Holden Torana. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Holden Torana. (156 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Holden Torana.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Holden Torana | 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Holden | Mazda |
| Model | Torana | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1897 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 102 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 156 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2590 mm | 2340 mm |
