1983 Dodge Daytona vs. 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Dodge Daytona. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Dodge Daytona would be higher. At 2,212 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Dodge Daytona is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Dodge Daytona (143 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (104 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1983 Dodge Daytona should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Dodge Daytona weights approximately 169 kg more than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Dodge Daytona, 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, 1983 Dodge Daytona (217 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (134 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1983 Dodge Daytona will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Dodge Daytona | 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Dodge | Mazda |
| Model | Daytona | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2212 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1116 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 50 L |
