2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1978 Mazda 929
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda 929. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda 929 would be higher. At 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (124 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 929. (83 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 929. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 85 kg more than 1978 Mazda 929. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 929. (134 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 929.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1978 Mazda 929 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 929 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 1769 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 88 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1155 kg | 1070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |
