1966 Datsun 1000 vs. 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Datsun 1000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Datsun 1000 would be higher. At 1,498 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata (112 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1966 Datsun 1000. (61 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1966 Datsun 1000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 400 kg more than 1966 Datsun 1000. 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, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata (124 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Datsun 1000. (84 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Datsun 1000.
Compare all specifications:
| 1966 Datsun 1000 | 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Datsun | Mazda |
| Model | 1000 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1966 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 988 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 61 HP | 112 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 84 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 625 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2270 mm |
