1956 Porsche 356 vs. 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 54 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Porsche 356. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Porsche 356 would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1956 Porsche 356. (70 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1956 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 389 kg more than 1956 Porsche 356. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 Porsche 356 | 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Porsche | Mazda |
| Model | 356 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1956 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1488 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 750 kg | 1139 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 3995 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1245 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2329 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 48 L |
