2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata (108 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. (70 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 305 kg more than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1976 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, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata (135 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. (111 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit has automatic transmission and 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | MX-5 Miata | Rabbit |
Year Released | 2004 | 1976 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 108 HP | 70 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 135 Nm | 111 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 79.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 80 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 805 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 3950 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2410 mm |