1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1977 Plymouth Horizon
To start off, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Plymouth Horizon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Plymouth Horizon would be higher. At 1,715 cc (4 cylinders), 1977 Plymouth Horizon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata (110 HP) has 35 more horse power than 1977 Plymouth Horizon. (75 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1977 Plymouth Horizon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 38 kg more than 1977 Plymouth Horizon. 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, 1977 Plymouth Horizon, 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 (134 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Plymouth Horizon. (122 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Plymouth Horizon.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1977 Plymouth Horizon | |
| Make | Mazda | Plymouth |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Horizon |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1977 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1715 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 75 HP |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 122 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1038 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2530 mm |
