1976 Innocenti Mini 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 Innocenti Mini. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Innocenti Mini would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (158 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 1976 Innocenti Mini. (48 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1976 Innocenti Mini. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 474 kg more than 1976 Innocenti Mini. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2008 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 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1976 Innocenti Mini, 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, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Innocenti Mini. (69 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Innocenti Mini.

Compare all specifications:

1976 Innocenti Mini 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata
Make Innocenti Mazda
Model Mini MX-5 Miata
Year Released 1976 2008
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 998 cc 1999 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 48 HP 158 HP
Engine RPM 5600 RPM 6700 RPM
Torque 69 Nm 188 Nm
Torque RPM 2600 RPM 5000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 64.6 mm 87.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 76.2 mm 83.1 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.0:1 10.8:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline - Premium
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 720 kg 1194 kg
Vehicle Length 3170 mm 4000 mm
Vehicle Width 1510 mm 1730 mm
Vehicle Height 1390 mm 1260 mm
Wheelbase Size 2050 mm 2340 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 38 L 50 L