2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1972 Holden Torana
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Holden Torana. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Holden Torana would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (166 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1972 Holden Torana. (79 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1972 Holden Torana. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 402 kg more than 1972 Holden Torana. 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, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Holden Torana. (131 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Holden Torana. 1972 Holden Torana has automatic transmission and 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1972 Holden Torana will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1972 Holden Torana | |
| Make | Mazda | Holden |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Torana |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1599 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 166 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 131 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1332 kg | 930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2440 mm |
