1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1970 Triumph 1300
To start off, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Triumph 1300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Triumph 1300 would be higher. At 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata (138 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1970 Triumph 1300. (60 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1970 Triumph 1300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 110 kg more than 1970 Triumph 1300. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 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 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1970 Triumph 1300, 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, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata (162 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Triumph 1300. (99 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Triumph 1300.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1970 Triumph 1300 | |
| Make | Mazda | Triumph |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 1300 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1970 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 1296 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 60 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 99 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 73.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 915 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 3940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1570 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 42 L |
