1972 Maserati Ghibli vs. 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Maserati Ghibli. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Maserati Ghibli would be higher. At 4,929 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Maserati Ghibli is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Maserati Ghibli (331 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 164 more horse power than 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (167 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Maserati Ghibli should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Maserati Ghibli weights approximately 310 kg more than 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 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. 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata has automatic transmission and 1972 Maserati Ghibli has manual transmission. 1972 Maserati Ghibli will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Maserati Ghibli | 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Maserati | Mazda |
| Model | Ghibli | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2012 |
| Engine Size | 4929 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 331 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1435 kg | 1125 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 3995 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1190 mm | 1245 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2329 mm |
