1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1963 Riley Elf
To start off, 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 Riley Elf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 Riley Elf would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata (116 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1963 Riley Elf. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1963 Riley Elf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 305 kg more than 1963 Riley Elf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1963 Riley Elf, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata (130 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1963 Riley Elf. (60 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1963 Riley Elf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1963 Riley Elf | |
| Make | Mazda | Riley |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Elf |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1963 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 847 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 60 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 955 kg | 650 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 3280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2040 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 25 L |
