2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1981 Nissan Stanza
To start off, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Nissan Stanza. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Nissan Stanza would be higher. At 1,837 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata (139 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Stanza. (87 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Stanza. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 845 kg more than 1981 Nissan Stanza. 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, 1981 Nissan Stanza, 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 (168 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Stanza. (142 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Stanza.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1981 Nissan Stanza | |
Make | Mazda | Nissan |
Model | MX-5 Miata | Stanza |
Year Released | 2004 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1837 cc | 1809 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 139 HP | 87 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 168 Nm | 142 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 940 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4310 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1670 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1390 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2480 mm |