2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1976 Nissan 260 ZX
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Nissan 260 ZX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Nissan 260 ZX would be higher. At 2,565 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Nissan 260 ZX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (158 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1976 Nissan 260 ZX. (124 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1976 Nissan 260 ZX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 11 kg more than 1976 Nissan 260 ZX. 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, both vehicles can yield 189 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata has automatic transmission and 1976 Nissan 260 ZX has manual transmission. 1976 Nissan 260 ZX will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1976 Nissan 260 ZX | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 260 ZX |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2565 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 189 Nm | 189 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1164 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2610 mm |
