2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit
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 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit 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 108 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. (70 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 337 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. 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 Volkswagen Rabbit, 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 123 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit. (102 Nm). This means 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1978 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | MX-5 Miata | Rabbit |
Year Released | 2005 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1835 cc | 1457 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 178 HP | 70 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 225 Nm | 102 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 79.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 73.4 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Vehicle Weight | 1147 kg | 810 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 3950 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2410 mm |