1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1973 Audi 80
To start off, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Audi 80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Audi 80 would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Audi 80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata (112 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1973 Audi 80. (75 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1973 Audi 80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 113 kg more than 1973 Audi 80. 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, 1973 Audi 80, 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 (124 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Audi 80. (112 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Audi 80.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1973 Audi 80 | |
| Make | Mazda | Audi |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 80 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1588 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 112 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 112 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.2:1 |
| 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 | 912 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4390 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 60 L |
