1978 Daihatsu Taft vs. 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Daihatsu Taft. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Daihatsu Taft would be higher. At 2,530 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Daihatsu Taft is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata (166 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1978 Daihatsu Taft. (62 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1978 Daihatsu Taft. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 17 kg more than 1978 Daihatsu Taft. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Daihatsu Taft is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Daihatsu Taft will offer significantly more control. 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, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata (191 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Daihatsu Taft. (150 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Daihatsu Taft.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Daihatsu Taft | 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Daihatsu | Mazda |
| Model | Taft | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2007 |
| Engine Size | 2530 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 62 HP | 166 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 191 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1185 kg | 1202 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3370 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1470 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2030 mm | 2340 mm |
