2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1972 Mini Clubman
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 Mini Clubman. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Mini Clubman 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 (159 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 1972 Mini Clubman. (38 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1972 Mini Clubman. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 490 kg more than 1972 Mini Clubman. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1972 Mini Clubman, 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, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 116 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Mini Clubman. (72 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Mini Clubman.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1972 Mini Clubman | |
| Make | Mazda | Mini |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Clubman |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 159 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 72 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 680 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 3180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2040 mm |
