1962 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1995 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 1995 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 6,964 cc (8 cylinders), 1962 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1962 Ford Thunderbird (345 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 256 more horse power than 1995 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1962 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1995 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1962 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 909 kg more than 1995 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 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:
| 1962 Ford Thunderbird | 1995 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Thunderbird | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1962 | 1995 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6964 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 345 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1875 kg | 966 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5210 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2270 mm |
