2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1978 Mini MK IV
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 Mini MK IV. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mini MK IV would be higher. At 1,835 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata (178 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 144 more horse power than 1978 Mini MK IV. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1978 Mini MK IV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 537 kg more than 1978 Mini MK IV. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Mini MK IV, 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, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata (225 Nm) has 164 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mini MK IV. (61 Nm). This means 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mini MK IV.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1978 Mini MK IV | |
| Make | Mazda | Mini |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | MK IV |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1835 cc | 848 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 178 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 61 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1147 kg | 610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 3060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2040 mm |
