2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1978 Opel Rekord
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 Opel Rekord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Opel Rekord 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) has 66 more horse power than 1978 Opel Rekord. (100 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1978 Opel Rekord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 209 kg more than 1978 Opel Rekord. 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 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Opel Rekord. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Opel Rekord.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1978 Opel Rekord | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Rekord |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1978 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 166 HP | 100 HP |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1329 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 65 L |
