2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1972 Opel Commodore
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Opel Commodore. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Opel Commodore would be higher. At 2,490 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Opel Commodore is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (158 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1972 Opel Commodore. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1972 Opel Commodore. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Opel Commodore weights approximately 15 kg more than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
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 (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Opel Commodore. (177 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Opel Commodore.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1972 Opel Commodore | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Commodore |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 2490 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 69.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1155 kg | 1170 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 70 L |
