1964 Pontiac Tempest vs. 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 46 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1964 Pontiac Tempest. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1964 Pontiac Tempest would be higher. At 3,524 cc (6 cylinders), 1964 Pontiac Tempest is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1964 Pontiac Tempest. (118 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1964 Pontiac Tempest. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1964 Pontiac Tempest weights approximately 211 kg more than 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
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. 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata has automatic transmission and 1964 Pontiac Tempest has manual transmission. 1964 Pontiac Tempest will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1964 Pontiac Tempest | 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Pontiac | Mazda |
| Model | Tempest | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1964 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3524 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1139 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5160 mm | 3995 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2930 mm | 2329 mm |
