1984 Nissan Santana vs. 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Nissan Santana. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Nissan Santana would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1984 Nissan Santana. (102 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1984 Nissan Santana. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1984 Nissan Santana weights approximately 6 kg more than 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2011 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 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 Nissan Santana, 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, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Nissan Santana. (152 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Nissan Santana. 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata has automatic transmission and 1984 Nissan Santana has manual transmission. 1984 Nissan Santana will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1984 Nissan Santana | 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | Nissan | Mazda |
Model | Santana | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 1984 | 2011 |
Engine Size | 1994 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 102 HP | 167 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 7000 RPM |
Torque | 152 Nm | 190 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 1145 kg | 1139 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 3995 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1245 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2329 mm |