2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit 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 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit. (70 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 215 kg more than 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit. 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, 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit, 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 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit. (102 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1979 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | MX-5 Miata | Rabbit |
Year Released | 2002 | 1979 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1455 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 112 HP | 70 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 124 Nm | 102 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 810 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 3950 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2410 mm |