1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1969 MG MGB
To start off, 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 MG MGB. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 MG MGB would be higher. At 1,797 cc (4 cylinders), 1969 MG MGB is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1969 MG MGB (97 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1969 MG MGB should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 85 kg more than 1969 MG MGB.
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. Let's talk about torque, 1969 MG MGB (149 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (129 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1969 MG MGB will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1969 MG MGB | |
| Make | Mazda | MG |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | MGB |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1969 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1797 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 97 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 129 Nm | 149 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1530 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2320 mm |
