1959 Berkeley QB vs. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 50 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Berkeley QB. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Berkeley QB would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (158 HP) has 109 more horse power than 1959 Berkeley QB. (49 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1959 Berkeley QB. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 774 kg more than 1959 Berkeley QB. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1959 Berkeley QB, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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. Let's talk about torque, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 127 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Berkeley QB. (61 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Berkeley QB.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Berkeley QB | 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Berkeley | Mazda |
| Model | QB | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 692 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 158 HP |
| Torque | 61 Nm | 188 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 381 kg | 1155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3400 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1990 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 25 L | 50 L |
