1978 Chevrolet El Camino vs. 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Chevrolet El Camino. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Chevrolet El Camino would be higher. In terms of performance, 1978 Chevrolet El Camino (350 HP) has 208 more horse power than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (142 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Chevrolet El Camino should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
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. 1978 Chevrolet El Camino has automatic transmission and 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Chevrolet El Camino will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Chevrolet El Camino | 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | El Camino | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 350 HP | 142 HP |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 5130 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2980 mm | 2270 mm |
