2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1978 Mazda 616
To start off, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda 616. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda 616 would be higher. At 1,597 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata (108 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 616. (79 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 616. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 198 kg more than 1978 Mazda 616. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata (134 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 616. (124 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 616.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1978 Mazda 616 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 616 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 1586 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 83 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 912 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2480 mm |
