1957 Ford 12 M vs. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 51 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Ford 12 M. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Ford 12 M would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (158 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 1957 Ford 12 M. (53 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1957 Ford 12 M. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 203 kg more than 1957 Ford 12 M. 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:
| 1957 Ford 12 M | 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | 12 M | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1957 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 895 kg | 1098 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2340 mm |
