1981 Audi 80 vs. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Audi 80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Audi 80 would be higher. At 2,144 cc (5 cylinders), 1981 Audi 80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (158 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1981 Audi 80. (136 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1981 Audi 80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 2 kg more than 1981 Audi 80. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Audi 80 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Audi 80 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, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Audi 80. (176 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Audi 80.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Audi 80 | 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | 80 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2144 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 136 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 188 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.5 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 193 km/hour | 215 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1192 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4390 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2340 mm |
