1995 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1974 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1995 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1995 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Mazda MX-5 Miata (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 146 kg more than 1974 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1995 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 1995 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 Volkswagen Beetle, 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, 1995 Mazda MX-5 Miata (129 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1995 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
1995 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1974 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
Model | MX-5 Miata | Beetle |
Year Released | 1995 | 1974 |
Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1285 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 89 HP | 43 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
Torque | 129 Nm | 86 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 820 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4070 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1560 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2410 mm |