1980 Audi 80 vs. 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Audi 80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Audi 80 would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata (116 HP) has 57 more horse power than 1980 Audi 80. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1980 Audi 80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 5 kg more than 1980 Audi 80. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1993 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 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Audi 80, 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, 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata (131 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Audi 80. (101 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Audi 80.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Audi 80 | 1993 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | 80 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1993 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1296 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 116 HP |
| Torque | 101 Nm | 131 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.4 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 950 kg | 955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4390 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 50 L |
