1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1978 Peugeot 304
To start off, 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Peugeot 304. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Peugeot 304 would be higher. At 1,839 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata (138 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1978 Peugeot 304. (64 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1978 Peugeot 304. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 75 kg more than 1978 Peugeot 304. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 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 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Peugeot 304, 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, 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata (162 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Peugeot 304. (94 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Peugeot 304.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1978 Peugeot 304 | |
| Make | Mazda | Peugeot |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 304 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1839 cc | 1290 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2600 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 42 L |
