2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1984 Nissan Santana
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Nissan Santana. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Nissan Santana 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) has 91 more horse power than 1984 Nissan Santana. (67 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1984 Nissan Santana. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 117 kg more than 1984 Nissan Santana. 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, 1984 Nissan Santana, 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 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Nissan Santana. (132 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Nissan Santana.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1984 Nissan Santana | |
Make | Mazda | Nissan |
Model | MX-5 Miata | Santana |
Year Released | 2009 | 1984 |
Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1588 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 158 HP | 67 HP |
Torque | 188 Nm | 132 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1207 kg | 1090 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4550 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2560 mm |