2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1972 AC 428
To start off, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 AC 428. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 AC 428 would be higher. At 7,003 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 AC 428 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 AC 428 (298 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (178 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 AC 428 should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 AC 428 weights approximately 287 kg more than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 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, 1972 AC 428 (639 Nm) has 414 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (225 Nm). This means 1972 AC 428 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1972 AC 428 | |
| Make | Mazda | AC |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 428 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1835 cc | 7003 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 178 HP | 298 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 639 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1147 kg | 1434 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2450 mm |
