1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1979 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 145 kg more than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 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 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 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, 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata (129 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1979 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1979 |
| 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 | 965 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2410 mm |
