1979 Citroen GSA vs. 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Citroen GSA. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Citroen GSA would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata (104 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1979 Citroen GSA. (64 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1979 Citroen GSA. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 196 kg more than 1979 Citroen GSA. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 Citroen GSA, 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, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata (134 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Citroen GSA. (94 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Citroen GSA.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Citroen GSA | 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Citroen | Mazda |
| Model | GSA | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 94 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.7:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 920 kg | 1116 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2620 mm |
