1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1973 Mazda RX-4
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 Mazda RX-4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mazda RX-4 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1973 Mazda RX-4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mazda RX-4 (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (110 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mazda RX-4 should accelerate faster than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 10 kg more than 1973 Mazda RX-4.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 (241 Nm) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mazda RX-4. (165 Nm). This means 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mazda RX-4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1973 Mazda RX-4 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | RX-4 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1839 cc | 2616 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3950 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2520 mm |
