1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1980 Plymouth Horizon
To start off, 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Plymouth Horizon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Plymouth Horizon would be higher. At 1,714 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Plymouth Horizon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1980 Plymouth Horizon. (62 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1980 Plymouth Horizon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Plymouth Horizon weights approximately 35 kg more than 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 1997 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 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Plymouth Horizon, 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, 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata (129 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Plymouth Horizon. (115 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Plymouth Horizon.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1980 Plymouth Horizon | |
| Make | Mazda | Plymouth |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Horizon |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1714 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 129 Nm | 115 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2530 mm |
