1984 Fiat Panda vs. 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Fiat Panda. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Fiat Panda 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 120 more horse power than 1984 Fiat Panda. (47 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1984 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 364 kg more than 1984 Fiat Panda. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1984 Fiat Panda 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, 1984 Fiat Panda 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 121 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Fiat Panda. (69 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Fiat Panda.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Fiat Panda | 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | Panda | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Crossover | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 965 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 47 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 69 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 761 kg | 1125 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3410 mm | 3995 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1245 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2180 mm | 2329 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 32 L | 48 L |
