A new comparison chart reveals how the 2018 MX-5 Miata stacks up against the 1970 Chevelle 454 SS. These two iconic vehicles have nearly 50 years between them but both have plenty of enthusiasts. The chart compares horsepower, torque, 0-60 times and more.
“At first glance, it might appear that we’re pitting a heavyweight champ against a featherweight,” says Bob Cockerham, director of RealMazdaParts.com. “Maybe we are, but we were considering the whole ‘there’s no replacement for displacement’ argument. We thought we’d look at how this high performing Mazda compares to a popular muscle car.”
Here are some highlights from the chart:
- The MX-5 does 0-60 in 5.8 seconds, compared to the Chevelle’s 6.1 seconds.
- The ’70 Chevelle, with a 454 cubic inch V8 engine, delivers considerably more horsepower and torque than the 2018 MX-5’s 2.0L I4.
- The 1970 Chevy weighs nearly 1700 pounds more than the 2018 Miata. The Mazda’s lighter weight contributes to its impressive speed.
- Both cars feature a manual transmission, but the Mazda’s has two additional gears. The Chevelle has a Muncie M21 close-ratio 4-speed manual with an 11-inch clutch. The Miata has a SKYACTIV®-MT1 6-speed manual transmission with a short-throw shifter.
- When adjusted for inflation, the Chevelle is about $7000 less than the new MX-5. The Mazda’s safety features and superior handling contribute to the price difference.
“You might notice we used the 1970 454 Chevelle instead of a ’71 or ’72,” says Cockerham. “We wanted to compare the Miata to what is considered to be the best muscle car. Due to Mazda’s ongoing innovation, the Miata has excellent road gripping, handling, and steering. That’s not something a 1970 Chevy has. Maybe there is a replacement for displacement.”
See the entire graphic here: https://www.realmazdaparts.com/blog/replacement-for-displacement
About RealMazdaParts.com
RealMazdaParts.com is one of the largest and highest rated online etailers of OEM Mazda replacement parts and genuine Mazda accessories at wholesale prices. In business for decades, a veteran team of Mazda parts experts runs RealMazdaParts.com. Learn more at http://www.realmazdaparts.com/about-us.