1992 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1965 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1992 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1965 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1965 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 1992 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 Mazda MX-5 Miata (116 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 1965 Volkswagen Beetle. (24 HP @ 3300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1992 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1965 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 193 kg more than 1965 Volkswagen Beetle. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1965 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1992 | 1965 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1131 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 24 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 955 kg | 762 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 40 L |
