2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1981 Suzuki Jimny
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 Suzuki Jimny. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Suzuki Jimny would be higher. At 1,999 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 @ 7000 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 1981 Suzuki Jimny. (26 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1981 Suzuki Jimny. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 479 kg more than 1981 Suzuki Jimny. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Suzuki Jimny is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Suzuki Jimny will offer significantly more control. 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 137 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Suzuki Jimny. (52 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Suzuki Jimny. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata has automatic transmission and 1981 Suzuki Jimny has manual transmission. 1981 Suzuki Jimny 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 | 1981 Suzuki Jimny | |
| Make | Mazda | Suzuki |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Jimny |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 539 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 26 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 189 Nm | 52 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 696 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 3200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1400 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1700 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2040 mm |
