2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1975 Mini MK III
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Mini MK III. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Mini MK III would be higher. At 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (124 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1975 Mini MK III. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1975 Mini MK III. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 540 kg more than 1975 Mini MK III. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1975 Mini MK III, 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, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Mini MK III. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Mini MK III.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1975 Mini MK III | |
Make | Mazda | Mini |
Model | MX-5 Miata | MK III |
Year Released | 2009 | 1975 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1798 cc | 848 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 124 HP | 34 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 167 Nm | 61 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2900 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 610 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 3060 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1420 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1360 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2040 mm |