2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1980 Mitsubishi Sigma
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 Mitsubishi Sigma. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mitsubishi Sigma would be higher. At 2,554 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Mitsubishi Sigma is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (158 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1980 Mitsubishi Sigma. (98 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1980 Mitsubishi Sigma. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Mitsubishi Sigma weights approximately 20 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. Let's talk about torque, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (189 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mitsubishi Sigma. (188 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mitsubishi Sigma. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata has automatic transmission and 1980 Mitsubishi Sigma has manual transmission. 1980 Mitsubishi Sigma 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 | 1980 Mitsubishi Sigma | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Sigma |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2554 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 98 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 189 Nm | 188 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1195 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2520 mm |
