1978 Lotus 79 vs. 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Lotus 79. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Lotus 79 would be higher. At 2,992 cc (8 cylinders), 1978 Lotus 79 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Lotus 79 (484 HP @ 11000 RPM) has 368 more horse power than 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (116 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Lotus 79 should accelerate faster than 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 365 kg more than 1978 Lotus 79.
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 Lotus 79 | 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Lotus | Mazda |
| Model | 79 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1993 |
| Engine Size | 2992 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 484 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 11000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 590 kg | 955 kg |
