1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1979 Simca 1308
To start off, 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Simca 1308. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Simca 1308 would be higher. At 1,498 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata (112 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1979 Simca 1308. (67 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1979 Simca 1308. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Simca 1308 weights approximately 15 kg more than 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
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, 1979 Simca 1308, 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 (124 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Simca 1308. (107 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Simca 1308.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1979 Simca 1308 | |
| Make | Mazda | Simca |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 1308 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1292 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 112 HP | 67 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 107 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| 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 | 1040 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 58 L |
