2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1981 Mazda Cosmo
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mazda Cosmo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mazda Cosmo would be higher. At 2,292 cc (2 cylinders), 1981 Mazda Cosmo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (164 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1981 Mazda Cosmo. (120 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1981 Mazda Cosmo.
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, 1981 Mazda Cosmo (162 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (140 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1981 Mazda Cosmo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1981 Mazda Cosmo | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Cosmo |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2292 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 164 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2620 mm |
