1955 Ford 12 M vs. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 46 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Ford 12 M. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Ford 12 M would be higher. At 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata (134 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1955 Ford 12 M. (37 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1955 Ford 12 M.
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. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata has automatic transmission and 1955 Ford 12 M has manual transmission. 1955 Ford 12 M will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1955 Ford 12 M | 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | 12 M | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1955 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1172 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 37 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2270 mm |
