1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1981 Nissan Sunny
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 Nissan Sunny. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Nissan Sunny 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 (137 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Sunny. (53 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Sunny. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 120 kg more than 1981 Nissan Sunny. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata (163 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Sunny. (104 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Sunny.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1981 Nissan Sunny | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Sunny |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 1680 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 137 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 163 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 910 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2410 mm |
