2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1980 Subaru Rex
To start off, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Subaru Rex. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Subaru Rex 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 (160 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 131 more horse power than 1980 Subaru Rex. (29 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1980 Subaru Rex.
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, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Subaru Rex. (43 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Subaru Rex.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1980 Subaru Rex | |
| Make | Mazda | Subaru |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Rex |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 544 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 29 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 43 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Length | 3990 mm | 3000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1300 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 1930 mm |
