1957 Porsche 356 vs. 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 55 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Porsche 356. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Porsche 356 would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 108 more horse power than 1957 Porsche 356. (59 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1957 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 335 kg more than 1957 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. 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata has automatic transmission and 1957 Porsche 356 has manual transmission. 1957 Porsche 356 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:
| 1957 Porsche 356 | 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Porsche | Mazda |
| Model | 356 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1957 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1581 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 790 kg | 1125 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 3995 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1245 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2329 mm |
