1977 Chrysler Centura vs. 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA
To start off, 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Chrysler Centura. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Chrysler Centura would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA (165 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1977 Chrysler Centura. (118 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA should accelerate faster than 1977 Chrysler Centura. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA weights approximately 66 kg more than 1977 Chrysler Centura. 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, 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Chrysler Centura. (175 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Chrysler Centura. 1977 Chrysler Centura has automatic transmission and 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA has manual transmission. 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1977 Chrysler Centura will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Chrysler Centura | 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mazda |
| Model | Centura | MX-5 MIATA |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1981 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1116 kg | 1182 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4032 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1255 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2330 mm |
