2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata (166 HP) has 119 more horse power than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. (47 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 310 kg more than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 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 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit, 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, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 108 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. (82 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1469 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 166 HP | 47 HP |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 82 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 23.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 870 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2410 mm |
