2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1976 Subaru Leone
To start off, 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Subaru Leone. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Subaru Leone 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) has 52 more horse power than 1976 Subaru Leone. (60 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1976 Subaru Leone. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 230 kg more than 1976 Subaru Leone. 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, 1976 Subaru Leone, 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 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Subaru Leone. (94 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Subaru Leone. 1976 Subaru Leone has automatic transmission and 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1976 Subaru Leone will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1976 Subaru Leone | |
| Make | Mazda | Subaru |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Leone |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1359 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 112 HP | 60 HP |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 795 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1510 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2450 mm |
