1983 Dodge Daytona vs. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 25 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, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (166 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1983 Dodge Daytona. (97 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1983 Dodge Daytona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 194 kg more than 1983 Dodge Daytona. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 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, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Dodge Daytona. (162 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Dodge Daytona.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Dodge Daytona | 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Dodge | Mazda |
| Model | Daytona | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2212 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 97 HP | 166 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1135 kg | 1329 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2340 mm |
