2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1980 Lancia Gamma
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Lancia Gamma. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Lancia Gamma would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1980 Lancia Gamma. (117 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1980 Lancia Gamma. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Lancia Gamma weights approximately 225 kg more than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
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, 1980 Lancia Gamma, 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 (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Lancia Gamma. (175 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Lancia Gamma. 1980 Lancia Gamma 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. 1980 Lancia Gamma will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1980 Lancia Gamma | |
| Make | Mazda | Lancia |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Gamma |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 117 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.6 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.9:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1250 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 59 L |
