1978 Fiat Strada vs. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Fiat Strada. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Fiat Strada would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (158 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1978 Fiat Strada. (60 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1978 Fiat Strada. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 387 kg more than 1978 Fiat Strada. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Fiat Strada, 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, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (188 Nm) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Fiat Strada. (91 Nm). This means 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Fiat Strada. 1978 Fiat Strada has automatic transmission and 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Fiat Strada will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Fiat Strada | 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | Fiat | Mazda |
Model | Strada | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
Body Type | Pickup | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1288 cc | 1999 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 60 HP | 158 HP |
Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6700 RPM |
Torque | 91 Nm | 188 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 87.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 55.6 mm | 83.1 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 10.8:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 1207 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4000 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1260 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2340 mm |