1980 Triumph TR8 vs. 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Triumph TR8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Triumph TR8 would be higher. At 3,523 cc (8 cylinders), 1980 Triumph TR8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 HP) has 29 more horse power than 1980 Triumph TR8. (138 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1980 Triumph TR8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 310 kg more than 1980 Triumph TR8. 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 Triumph TR8 (224 Nm) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (190 Nm). This means 1980 Triumph TR8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata has automatic transmission and 1980 Triumph TR8 has manual transmission. 1980 Triumph TR8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Triumph TR8 | 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Triumph | Mazda |
| Model | TR8 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3523 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 167 HP |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 815 kg | 1125 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 3995 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1245 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2170 mm | 2329 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 48 L |
