1976 Honda Civic 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 Honda Civic. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Honda Civic would be higher. At 1,835 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1976 Honda Civic. (53 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1976 Honda Civic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 435 kg more than 1976 Honda Civic. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1976 Honda Civic, 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, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata (170 Nm) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Honda Civic. (79 Nm). This means 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Honda Civic.
Compare all specifications:
1976 Honda Civic | 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | Honda | Mazda |
Model | Civic | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 1976 | 2004 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1169 cc | 1835 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 53 HP | 134 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 79 Nm | 170 Nm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 675 kg | 1110 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 3950 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1230 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2210 mm | 2270 mm |