2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1980 Nissan Patrol
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 Nissan Patrol. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Nissan Patrol would be higher. At 3,244 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Nissan Patrol is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (166 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1980 Nissan Patrol. (94 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1980 Nissan Patrol. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Nissan Patrol weights approximately 746 kg more than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 1980 Nissan Patrol is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Nissan Patrol will offer significantly more control. 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, 1980 Nissan Patrol (215 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1980 Nissan Patrol 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 | 1980 Nissan Patrol | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Patrol |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 3244 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 166 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 215 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1329 kg | 2075 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2980 mm |
