2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1978 Plymouth Horizon
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 Plymouth Horizon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Plymouth Horizon 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) has 49 more horse power than 1978 Plymouth Horizon. (75 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1978 Plymouth Horizon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 155 kg more than 1978 Plymouth Horizon. 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, 1978 Plymouth Horizon, 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 (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Plymouth Horizon. (122 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Plymouth Horizon.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1978 Plymouth Horizon | |
| Make | Mazda | Plymouth |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Horizon |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 1715 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 75 HP |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 122 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1155 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2530 mm |
