1977 Ford Cortina vs. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata

To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Ford Cortina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Ford Cortina would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (158 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1977 Ford Cortina. (86 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1977 Ford Cortina. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 65 kg more than 1977 Ford Cortina. 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, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (189 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Ford Cortina. (140 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Ford Cortina. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata has automatic transmission and 1977 Ford Cortina has manual transmission. 1977 Ford Cortina will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1977 Ford Cortina 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata
Make Ford Mazda
Model Cortina MX-5 Miata
Year Released 1977 2009
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1997 cc 1999 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 86 HP 158 HP
Engine RPM 5300 RPM 7000 RPM
Torque 140 Nm 189 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 5000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline - Premium
Drive Type Rear Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Vehicle Weight 1110 kg 1175 kg
Vehicle Length 4380 mm 4030 mm
Vehicle Width 1710 mm 1730 mm
Vehicle Height 1340 mm 1260 mm
Wheelbase Size 2580 mm 2340 mm


 

More Comparisons

Resources

Replacing Your Front Disc Brakes Made Simple: The Definitive DIY Guide
Replace the front disc brakes of your vehicle and save money on labour cost. Read this guide to learn how. [read more]
What to look for when buying a used/second hand car.
Diligence through every step of the buying process will help you find a reliable used car and avoid any unpleasant surprises. [read more]
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Perform an Oil Change on Your Car
One of the most effective ways of saving money on car maintenance is to change the oil yourself. [read more]