1973 Ferrari 312 vs. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Ferrari 312. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Ferrari 312 would be higher. At 2,991 cc (12 cylinders), 1973 Ferrari 312 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Ferrari 312 (478 HP @ 12500 RPM) has 330 more horse power than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Ferrari 312 should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 495 kg more than 1973 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Ferrari 312 | 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Ferrari | Mazda |
| Model | 312 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2991 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 478 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 12500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 600 kg | 1095 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2060 mm | 1250 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 910 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2340 mm |
