1962 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 37 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 235 more horse power than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (110 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1962 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1962 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 755 kg more than 1999 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 | 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Thunderbird | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1962 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 6964 cc | 1839 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 345 HP | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1875 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5210 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2270 mm |
