1979 Audi 100 vs. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Audi 100. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Audi 100 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 25 more horse power than 1979 Audi 100. (85 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1979 Audi 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 10 kg more than 1979 Audi 100. 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, 1979 Audi 100, 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 117 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Audi 100. (124 Nm). This means 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Audi 100.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Audi 100 | 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | 100 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1839 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 241 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2270 mm |
