1980 Fiat Panda vs. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Fiat Panda. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Fiat Panda would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (158 HP) has 125 more horse power than 1980 Fiat Panda. (33 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1980 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 440 kg more than 1980 Fiat Panda. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Fiat Panda, 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, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 131 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Fiat Panda. (57 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Fiat Panda.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Fiat Panda | 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | Panda | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 770 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 33 HP | 158 HP |
| Torque | 57 Nm | 188 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 65 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 58 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 125 km/hour | 210 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 23 seconds | 7.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 715 kg | 1155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2170 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 50 L |
