1982 Jeep CJ7 vs. 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Jeep CJ7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Jeep CJ7 would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1982 Jeep CJ7. (85 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1982 Jeep CJ7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Jeep CJ7 weights approximately 151 kg more than 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 1982 Jeep CJ7 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1982 Jeep CJ7 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, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Jeep CJ7. (150 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Jeep CJ7.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Jeep CJ7 | 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Jeep | Mazda |
| Model | CJ7 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1139 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3900 mm | 3995 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1840 mm | 1245 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2380 mm | 2329 mm |
