2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1979 Pontiac Trans Am
To start off, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Pontiac Trans Am. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Pontiac Trans Am would be higher. At 6,555 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 Pontiac Trans Am is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Pontiac Trans Am (220 HP) has 42 more horse power than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (178 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Pontiac Trans Am should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
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, 1979 Pontiac Trans Am (434 Nm) has 214 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (220 Nm). This means 1979 Pontiac Trans Am will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1979 Pontiac Trans Am | |
| Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Trans Am |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1835 cc | 6555 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 178 HP | 220 HP |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 434 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 104.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 95.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.1:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 5040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2750 mm |
