2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1984 Nissan Santana
To start off, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Nissan Santana. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Nissan Santana 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) has 86 more horse power than 1984 Nissan Santana. (67 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1984 Nissan Santana. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1984 Nissan Santana weights approximately 35 kg more than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
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, 1984 Nissan Santana, 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 (189 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Nissan Santana. (132 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Nissan Santana. 1984 Nissan Santana 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. 1984 Nissan Santana will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1984 Nissan Santana | |
Make | Mazda | Nissan |
Model | MX-5 Miata | Santana |
Year Released | 2005 | 1984 |
Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 153 HP | 67 HP |
Torque | 189 Nm | 132 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 1090 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3990 mm | 4550 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2560 mm |