1956 Maserati 300 vs. 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 56 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Maserati 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Maserati 300 would be higher. At 2,992 cc (6 cylinders), 1956 Maserati 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1956 Maserati 300 (242 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (167 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1956 Maserati 300 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 369 kg more than 1956 Maserati 300.
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. 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata has automatic transmission and 1956 Maserati 300 has manual transmission. 1956 Maserati 300 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 Maserati 300 | 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Maserati | Mazda |
| Model | 300 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1956 | 2012 |
| Engine Size | 2992 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 242 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 756 kg | 1125 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 3995 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1460 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 990 mm | 1245 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2320 mm | 2329 mm |
