1981 Dodge Omni vs. 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Dodge Omni. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Dodge Omni would be higher. At 1,835 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata (178 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 1981 Dodge Omni. (64 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1981 Dodge Omni. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 147 kg more than 1981 Dodge Omni. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Dodge Omni, 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, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata (220 Nm) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Dodge Omni. (115 Nm). This means 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Dodge Omni.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Dodge Omni | 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Dodge | Mazda |
| Model | Omni | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1715 cc | 1835 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 178 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 115 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 79.6 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.2:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 1147 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 48 L |
