1980 Alfa Romeo 179 vs. 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Alfa Romeo 179. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Alfa Romeo 179 would be higher. At 3,000 cc (12 cylinders), 1980 Alfa Romeo 179 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata (139 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1980 Alfa Romeo 179. (132 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1980 Alfa Romeo 179. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 685 kg more than 1980 Alfa Romeo 179. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1980 Alfa Romeo 179 (177 Nm) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (168 Nm). This means 1980 Alfa Romeo 179 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 1980 Alfa Romeo 179 has automatic transmission and 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Alfa Romeo 179 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1980 Alfa Romeo 179 | 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Mazda |
Model | 179 | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 1980 | 2004 |
Engine Position | Rear | Front |
Engine Size | 3000 cc | 1837 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 132 HP | 139 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 7000 RPM |
Torque | 177 Nm | 168 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 1 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 1785 kg |
Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2650 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 50 L |