2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1973 Nissan Skyline
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Nissan Skyline. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Nissan Skyline would be higher. At 1,989 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Nissan Skyline is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Nissan Skyline (135 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Nissan Skyline should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 35 kg more than 1973 Nissan Skyline.
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, 1973 Nissan Skyline, 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, 1973 Nissan Skyline (180 Nm @ 5600 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1973 Nissan Skyline will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1973 Nissan Skyline | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Skyline |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 1989 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1155 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2650 mm |
