1995 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1980 Suzuki SJ 410
To start off, 1995 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Suzuki SJ 410. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Suzuki SJ 410 would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1995 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Mazda MX-5 Miata (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1980 Suzuki SJ 410. (44 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1980 Suzuki SJ 410. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 96 kg more than 1980 Suzuki SJ 410. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 Suzuki SJ 410 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1995 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Suzuki SJ 410 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, 1995 Mazda MX-5 Miata (129 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Suzuki SJ 410. (74 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1995 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Suzuki SJ 410.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1980 Suzuki SJ 410 | |
| Make | Mazda | Suzuki |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | SJ 410 |
| Year Released | 1995 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 44 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 129 Nm | 74 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 870 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 3450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1470 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1700 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2040 mm |
