2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1972 Peugeot 304
To start off, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Peugeot 304. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Peugeot 304 would be higher. At 1,835 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata (155 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 1972 Peugeot 304. (64 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1972 Peugeot 304. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 721 kg more than 1972 Peugeot 304. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 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 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1972 Peugeot 304, 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, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata (171 Nm) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Peugeot 304. (95 Nm). This means 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Peugeot 304.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1972 Peugeot 304 | |
| Make | Mazda | Peugeot |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 304 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1835 cc | 1290 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 155 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.1 mm | 67.6 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1671 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2600 mm |
