1963 Mazda R 360 vs. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 45 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 Mazda R 360. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 Mazda R 360 would be higher. At 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (124 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 108 more horse power than 1963 Mazda R 360. (16 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1963 Mazda R 360. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 775 kg more than 1963 Mazda R 360. 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. Let's talk about torque, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 1963 Mazda R 360. (23 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1963 Mazda R 360.
Compare all specifications:
| 1963 Mazda R 360 | 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | R 360 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1963 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Size | 356 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 16 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 23 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 60 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 63 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 380 kg | 1155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 2990 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1300 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1770 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 50 L |
