2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1977 Talbot Horizon
To start off, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Talbot Horizon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Talbot Horizon would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata (159 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 1977 Talbot Horizon. (57 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1977 Talbot Horizon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 210 kg more than 1977 Talbot Horizon. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 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 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1977 Talbot Horizon, 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, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Talbot Horizon. (101 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Talbot Horizon.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1977 Talbot Horizon | |
| Make | Mazda | Talbot |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Horizon |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1977 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1294 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 159 HP | 57 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 101 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1155 kg | 945 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 3970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2530 mm |
