1961 Mini MK I vs. 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 50 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Mini MK I. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Mini MK I would be higher. At 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata (124 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1961 Mini MK I. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1961 Mini MK I.
Because 2011 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 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1961 Mini MK I, 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, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 107 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Mini MK I. (60 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Mini MK I.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Mini MK I | 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Mini | Mazda |
| Model | MK I | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 847 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 60 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 3995 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1245 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2329 mm |
