2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1977 Rover 3500
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Rover 3500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Rover 3500 would be higher. At 3,532 cc (8 cylinders), 1977 Rover 3500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (158 HP) has 1 more horse power than 1977 Rover 3500. (157 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1977 Rover 3500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Rover 3500 weights approximately 180 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1977 Rover 3500 | |
| Make | Mazda | Rover |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 3500 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 3532 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 71.1 mm |
| Top Speed | 215 km/hour | 203 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1192 kg | 1372 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2820 mm |
