2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1982 Mitsubishi Colt
To start off, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Mitsubishi Colt. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Mitsubishi Colt would be higher. At 1,597 cc (4 cylinders), 1982 Mitsubishi Colt is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata (104 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1982 Mitsubishi Colt. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1982 Mitsubishi Colt. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 211 kg more than 1982 Mitsubishi Colt. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1982 Mitsubishi Colt, 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, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata (134 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Mitsubishi Colt. (112 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Mitsubishi Colt. 1982 Mitsubishi Colt has automatic transmission and 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1982 Mitsubishi Colt will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1982 Mitsubishi Colt | |
Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
Model | MX-5 Miata | Colt |
Year Released | 2003 | 1982 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1597 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 104 HP | 74 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 134 Nm | 112 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 1116 kg | 905 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 3920 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1600 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1360 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2390 mm |