2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1980 Mazda Cosmo
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mazda Cosmo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mazda Cosmo would be higher. At 1,998 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 @ 6700 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 1980 Mazda Cosmo. (93 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1980 Mazda Cosmo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 101 kg more than 1980 Mazda Cosmo. 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 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mazda Cosmo. (151 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mazda Cosmo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1980 Mazda Cosmo | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Cosmo |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1769 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 166 HP | 93 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 151 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 88 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1191 kg | 1090 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 65 L |
