2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1976 Toyota Publica
To start off, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Toyota Publica. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Toyota Publica would be higher. At 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata (139 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 1976 Toyota Publica. (47 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1976 Toyota Publica. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 456 kg more than 1976 Toyota Publica. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1976 Toyota Publica | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Publica |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 47 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 684 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 3700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1460 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2170 mm |
