1978 Alpine A 442 vs. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Alpine A 442. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Alpine A 442 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Alpine A 442 (484 HP @ 9900 RPM) has 326 more horse power than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (158 HP @ 6700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Alpine A 442 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 452 kg more than 1978 Alpine A 442.
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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Alpine A 442 | 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Alpine | Mazda |
| Model | A 442 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 484 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 9900 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 740 kg | 1192 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2340 mm |
