1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1965 Trabant Universal
To start off, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1965 Trabant Universal. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1965 Trabant Universal 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 115 more horse power than 1965 Trabant Universal. (23 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1965 Trabant Universal. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 365 kg more than 1965 Trabant Universal. 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, 1965 Trabant Universal, 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 111 more torque (in Nm) than 1965 Trabant Universal. (51 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1965 Trabant Universal.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1965 Trabant Universal | |
| Make | Mazda | Trabant |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Universal |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1965 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 23 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 51 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 73 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 3370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1500 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2030 mm |
