1977 Mazda RX-4 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 Mazda RX-4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Mazda RX-4 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1977 Mazda RX-4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (158 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1977 Mazda RX-4. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1977 Mazda RX-4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 82 kg more than 1977 Mazda RX-4. 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 (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Mazda RX-4. (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Mazda RX-4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Mazda RX-4 | 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | RX-4 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 188 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1192 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2340 mm |
