1980 GMC Jimmy vs. 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata

To start off, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 GMC Jimmy. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 GMC Jimmy would be higher. At 4,093 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 GMC Jimmy is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 GMC Jimmy (129 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (112 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 GMC Jimmy should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 GMC Jimmy weights approximately 805 kg more than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1980 GMC Jimmy is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 GMC Jimmy will offer significantly more control. 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 GMC Jimmy (285 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 161 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1980 GMC Jimmy will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 1980 GMC Jimmy has automatic transmission and 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 GMC Jimmy will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1980 GMC Jimmy 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata
Make GMC Mazda
Model Jimmy MX-5 Miata
Year Released 1980 2003
Body Type SUV Convertible
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4093 cc 1498 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 129 HP 112 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 6500 RPM
Torque 285 Nm 124 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 5000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type 4WD Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Vehicle Weight 1830 kg 1025 kg
Vehicle Length 4690 mm 3960 mm
Vehicle Width 2030 mm 1680 mm
Vehicle Height 1840 mm 1240 mm
Wheelbase Size 2720 mm 2270 mm