1978 Mazda 929 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 Mazda 929. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda 929 would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Mazda 929 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata (110 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 929. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 929. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mazda 929 weights approximately 30 kg more than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
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. Let's talk about torque, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata (241 Nm) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 929. (160 Nm). This means 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 929.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mazda 929 | 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 929 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1839 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 241 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 98 mm | 85.1 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2270 mm |
