1978 Mazda 616 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 Mazda 616. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda 616 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 79 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 616. (79 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 616. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 295 kg more than 1978 Mazda 616. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 616. (124 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 616.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mazda 616 | 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 616 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1586 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 188 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 912 kg | 1207 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2340 mm |
