2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1978 Simca Horizon
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Simca Horizon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Simca Horizon 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 41 more horse power than 1978 Simca Horizon. (83 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1978 Simca Horizon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 130 kg more than 1978 Simca Horizon. 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, 1978 Simca Horizon, 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 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Simca Horizon. (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Simca Horizon. 1978 Simca Horizon has automatic transmission and 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Simca Horizon will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1978 Simca Horizon | |
Make | Mazda | Simca |
Model | MX-5 Miata | Horizon |
Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1798 cc | 1442 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 124 HP | 83 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 167 Nm | 121 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 9.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 156 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1155 kg | 1025 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 3970 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2530 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 47 L |