2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1980 Triumph Spitfire
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 Triumph Spitfire. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Triumph Spitfire 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 (170 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 1980 Triumph Spitfire. (71 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1980 Triumph Spitfire. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 595 kg more than 1980 Triumph Spitfire. 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, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Triumph Spitfire. (111 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Triumph Spitfire.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1980 Triumph Spitfire | |
| Make | Mazda | Triumph |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Spitfire |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 111 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 3740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1210 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2110 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 33 L |
