2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1982 Oldsmobile Toronado
To start off, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Oldsmobile Toronado. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Oldsmobile Toronado would be higher. At 5,734 cc (8 cylinders), 1982 Oldsmobile Toronado is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata (178 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1982 Oldsmobile Toronado. (106 HP @ 3200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1982 Oldsmobile Toronado. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Oldsmobile Toronado weights approximately 548 kg more than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
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, 1982 Oldsmobile Toronado, 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, 1982 Oldsmobile Toronado (278 Nm) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (220 Nm). This means 1982 Oldsmobile Toronado 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 | 1982 Oldsmobile Toronado | |
| Make | Mazda | Oldsmobile |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Toronado |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1982 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1835 cc | 5734 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 178 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 278 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 103.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 85.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 22.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1147 kg | 1695 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 5230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 2040 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2900 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 88 L |
