2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1983 Peugeot 305
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Peugeot 305. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Peugeot 305 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 (159 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1983 Peugeot 305. (104 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1983 Peugeot 305. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 170 kg more than 1983 Peugeot 305. 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, 1983 Peugeot 305, 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 (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Peugeot 305. (165 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Peugeot 305.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1983 Peugeot 305 | |
| Make | Mazda | Peugeot |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 305 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1904 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 159 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 88 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 53 L |
