1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1961 Saab 750
To start off, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Saab 750. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Saab 750 would be higher. At 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata (138 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1961 Saab 750. (48 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1961 Saab 750. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 172 kg more than 1961 Saab 750. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 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 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1961 Saab 750, 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, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata (162 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Saab 750. (84 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Saab 750.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1961 Saab 750 | |
| Make | Mazda | Saab |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 750 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 748 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 48 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 84 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 66 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 72.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 205 km/hour | 151 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 853 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1570 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 60 L |
