1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1980 Triumph Dolomite
To start off, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Triumph Dolomite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Triumph Dolomite 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 81 more horse power than 1980 Triumph Dolomite. (57 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1980 Triumph Dolomite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 85 kg more than 1980 Triumph Dolomite. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 (162 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Triumph Dolomite. (95 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Triumph Dolomite.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1980 Triumph Dolomite | |
| Make | Mazda | Triumph |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Dolomite |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1980 |
| 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 | 57 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 73.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 76 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 56 L |
