1966 Datsun 1000 vs. 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 45 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 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata (124 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1966 Datsun 1000. (61 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1966 Datsun 1000.
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, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Datsun 1000. (84 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 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 | 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Datsun | Mazda |
| Model | 1000 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1966 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 988 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 61 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 84 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 3820 mm | 3995 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1245 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2329 mm |
