2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1959 Peugeot 403
To start off, 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 43 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Peugeot 403. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Peugeot 403 would be higher. At 1,498 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata (112 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1959 Peugeot 403. (56 HP @ 4650 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1959 Peugeot 403. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 Peugeot 403 weights approximately 10 kg more than 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
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:
| 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1959 Peugeot 403 | |
| Make | Mazda | Peugeot |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 403 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1959 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1466 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 112 HP | 56 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4650 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 1035 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2670 mm |
