2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1971 MG 1100
To start off, 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 MG 1100. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 MG 1100 would be higher. At 1,498 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata (112 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1971 MG 1100. (70 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1971 MG 1100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 185 kg more than 1971 MG 1100. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 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 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1971 MG 1100, 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, 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata (124 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 MG 1100. (104 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 MG 1100.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1971 MG 1100 | |
| Make | Mazda | MG |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 1100 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1275 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 112 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 3730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2380 mm |
