1981 Fiat Panda vs. 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Fiat Panda. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Fiat Panda would be higher. At 1,597 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata (108 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1981 Fiat Panda. (34 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 420 kg more than 1981 Fiat Panda. 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, 1981 Fiat Panda, 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 (134 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat Panda. (58 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat Panda.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Fiat Panda | 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | Fiat | Mazda |
Model | Panda | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 1981 | 2005 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 843 cc | 1597 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 34 HP | 108 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 58 Nm | 134 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 65 mm | 78 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 58 mm | 83.6 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 690 kg | 1110 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 3980 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1230 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2170 mm | 2270 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 50 L |