1985 Fiat Regata vs. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Fiat Regata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Fiat Regata would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata (112 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1985 Fiat Regata. (100 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1985 Fiat Regata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 80 kg more than 1985 Fiat Regata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 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 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 Fiat Regata, 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, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata (244 Nm) has 108 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Fiat Regata. (136 Nm). This means 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Fiat Regata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Fiat Regata | 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Fiat | Mazda |
| Model | Regata | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1568 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 112 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 136 Nm | 244 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 1080 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2270 mm |
