1983 Dodge Daytona vs. 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 29 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, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1983 Dodge Daytona. (97 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1983 Dodge Daytona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Dodge Daytona weights approximately 10 kg more than 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2012 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 2012 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, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Dodge Daytona. (162 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2012 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 | 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Dodge | Mazda |
| Model | Daytona | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2212 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 97 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1135 kg | 1125 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 3995 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1245 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2329 mm |
