2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1978 Peugeot 305
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 Peugeot 305. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Peugeot 305 would be higher. At 1,839 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata (140 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1978 Peugeot 305. (94 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1978 Peugeot 305. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 165 kg more than 1978 Peugeot 305. 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 Peugeot 305, 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 (160 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Peugeot 305. (132 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Peugeot 305.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1978 Peugeot 305 | |
| Make | Mazda | Peugeot |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 305 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1839 cc | 1548 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 132 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 205 km/hour | 170 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 975 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2750 mm |
