2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1977 Mazda 818
To start off, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Mazda 818. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Mazda 818 would be higher. At 1,835 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata (178 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 1977 Mazda 818. (68 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1977 Mazda 818. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 147 kg more than 1977 Mazda 818. 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. Let's talk about torque, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata (220 Nm) has 128 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Mazda 818. (92 Nm). This means 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Mazda 818.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1977 Mazda 818 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 818 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1835 cc | 1271 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 178 HP | 68 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 92 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1147 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2320 mm |
