1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1981 Mini MK IV
To start off, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mini MK IV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mini MK IV would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata (110 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1981 Mini MK IV. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1981 Mini MK IV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 428 kg more than 1981 Mini MK IV. 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, 1981 Mini MK IV, 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 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mini MK IV. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mini MK IV.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1981 Mini MK IV | |
| Make | Mazda | Mini |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | MK IV |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 848 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 61 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1038 kg | 610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 3060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2040 mm |
