1980 Lancia Delta vs. 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Lancia Delta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Lancia Delta would be higher. At 1,835 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1980 Lancia Delta. (85 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1980 Lancia Delta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 110 kg more than 1980 Lancia Delta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Lancia Delta, 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, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata (170 Nm) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Lancia Delta. (123 Nm). This means 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Lancia Delta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Lancia Delta | 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Lancia | Mazda |
| Model | Delta | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1497 cc | 1835 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 123 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 975 kg | 1085 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3900 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 48 L |
