1979 Citroen GSA vs. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Citroen GSA. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Citroen GSA would be higher. At 1,835 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata (155 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 1979 Citroen GSA. (63 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1979 Citroen GSA. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 731 kg more than 1979 Citroen GSA. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 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 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 Citroen GSA, 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, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata (171 Nm) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Citroen GSA. (98 Nm). This means 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Citroen GSA.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Citroen GSA | 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Citroen | Mazda |
| Model | GSA | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1835 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 63 HP | 155 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 98 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 940 kg | 1671 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2270 mm |
