1977 Ford Fiesta vs. 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata (124 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1977 Ford Fiesta. (66 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1977 Ford Fiesta.
Because 2012 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 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1977 Ford Fiesta, 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, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Ford Fiesta. (94 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Ford Fiesta | 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Fiesta | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 66 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 3995 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1245 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2329 mm |
