1977 Audi 100 vs. 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Audi 100. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Audi 100 would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata (116 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1977 Audi 100. (85 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1977 Audi 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Audi 100 weights approximately 140 kg more than 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 1989 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 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1977 Audi 100, 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, 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata (137 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Audi 100. (125 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Audi 100.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Audi 100 | 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | 100 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1977 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.5 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2270 mm |
