2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1958 Porsche 550 A
To start off, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 43 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Porsche 550 A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Porsche 550 A would be higher. At 1,835 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata (155 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1958 Porsche 550 A. (108 HP @ 7200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1958 Porsche 550 A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 1066 kg more than 1958 Porsche 550 A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1958 Porsche 550 A | |
| Make | Mazda | Porsche |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 550 A |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1958 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1835 cc | 1496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 155 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 7200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1671 kg | 605 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2110 mm |
