1960 Porsche 356 vs. 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 51 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1960 Porsche 356. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1960 Porsche 356 would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1960 Porsche 356. (135 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1960 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 390 kg more than 1960 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:
| 1960 Porsche 356 | 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Porsche | Mazda |
| Model | 356 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1960 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 786 kg | 1176 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 3995 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1255 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2110 mm | 2329 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 48 L |
