2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1981 Chrysler Avenger
To start off, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Chrysler Avenger. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Chrysler Avenger would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata (153 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1981 Chrysler Avenger. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1981 Chrysler Avenger. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 175 kg more than 1981 Chrysler Avenger. 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, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata (189 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Chrysler Avenger. (93 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Chrysler Avenger. 1981 Chrysler Avenger has automatic transmission and 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Chrysler Avenger will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1981 Chrysler Avenger | |
| Make | Mazda | Chrysler |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Avenger |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 189 Nm | 93 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3990 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2500 mm |
