1978 Innocenti Mini vs. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Innocenti Mini. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Innocenti Mini would be higher. At 1,839 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata (110 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1978 Innocenti Mini. (48 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1978 Innocenti Mini. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 394 kg more than 1978 Innocenti Mini. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 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 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Innocenti Mini, 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, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata (241 Nm) has 172 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Innocenti Mini. (69 Nm). This means 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Innocenti Mini.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Innocenti Mini | 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Innocenti | Mazda |
| Model | Mini | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 998 cc | 1839 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 48 HP | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 69 Nm | 241 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 64.6 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 85.1 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 726 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3170 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2050 mm | 2270 mm |
