2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1974 Holden Torana
To start off, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Holden Torana. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Holden Torana would be higher. At 5,044 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Holden Torana is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Holden Torana (239 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Holden Torana should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Holden Torana weights approximately 125 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, 1974 Holden Torana (427 Nm) has 257 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (170 Nm). This means 1974 Holden Torana 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 | 1974 Holden Torana | |
| Make | Mazda | Holden |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Torana |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1835 cc | 5044 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 239 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 427 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1085 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3950 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2590 mm |
