1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1966 Saab 96
To start off, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Saab 96. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Saab 96 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 74 more horse power than 1966 Saab 96. (64 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1966 Saab 96. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 152 kg more than 1966 Saab 96. 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, 1966 Saab 96, 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 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Saab 96. (116 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Saab 96.
Compare all specifications:
1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1966 Saab 96 | |
Make | Mazda | Saab |
Model | MX-5 Miata | 96 |
Year Released | 1999 | 1966 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1840 cc | 1498 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 64 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4600 RPM |
Torque | 162 Nm | 116 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 90 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 58.9 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 873 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4210 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1580 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2500 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 38 L |