1971 Ferrari 312 vs. 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Ferrari 312. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Ferrari 312 would be higher. At 2,991 cc (12 cylinders), 1971 Ferrari 312 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Ferrari 312 (464 HP @ 12600 RPM) has 297 more horse power than 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (167 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Ferrari 312 should accelerate faster than 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 579 kg more than 1971 Ferrari 312.
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. 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata has automatic transmission and 1971 Ferrari 312 has manual transmission. 1971 Ferrari 312 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Ferrari 312 | 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Ferrari | Mazda |
| Model | 312 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2991 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 464 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 12600 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 560 kg | 1139 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 3995 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 960 mm | 1245 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2390 mm | 2329 mm |
