2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1971 Nissan Skyline
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Nissan Skyline. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Nissan Skyline would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (158 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1971 Nissan Skyline. (136 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1971 Nissan Skyline. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 55 kg more than 1971 Nissan Skyline. 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, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (189 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Nissan Skyline. (180 Nm @ 5600 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Nissan Skyline.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1971 Nissan Skyline | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Skyline |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1989 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 136 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 189 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2650 mm |
