2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1980 Peugeot 305
To start off, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Peugeot 305. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Peugeot 305 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 114 more horse power than 1980 Peugeot 305. (64 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1980 Peugeot 305. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 227 kg more than 1980 Peugeot 305. 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, 1980 Peugeot 305, 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 (220 Nm) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Peugeot 305. (96 Nm). This means 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Peugeot 305.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1980 Peugeot 305 | |
| Make | Mazda | Peugeot |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 305 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1835 cc | 1290 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 178 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 67.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1147 kg | 920 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 70 L |
