2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1974 Mazda RX-4
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mazda RX-4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mazda RX-4 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1974 Mazda RX-4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1974 Mazda RX-4. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1974 Mazda RX-4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Mazda RX-4 weights approximately 150 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 (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mazda RX-4. (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Mazda RX-4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1974 Mazda RX-4 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | RX-4 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2616 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2520 mm |
