2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1985 Mazda 121
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mazda 121 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 (149 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1985 Mazda 121. (55 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1985 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 370 kg more than 1985 Mazda 121. 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, 1985 Mazda 121, 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 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mazda 121. (88 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1985 Mazda 121 | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | MX-5 Miata | 121 |
Year Released | 2008 | 1985 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1138 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 149 HP | 55 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 188 Nm | 88 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Top Speed | 210 km/hour | 145 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 725 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 3480 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1250 mm | 1610 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2370 mm |