2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1951 Mercury Roadster
To start off, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 52 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1951 Mercury Roadster. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1951 Mercury Roadster would be higher. At 3,990 cc (8 cylinders), 1951 Mercury Roadster is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata (112 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1951 Mercury Roadster. (108 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1951 Mercury Roadster. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1951 Mercury Roadster weights approximately 525 kg more than 2003 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. 1951 Mercury Roadster has automatic transmission and 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1951 Mercury Roadster will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1951 Mercury Roadster | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercury |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Roadster |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1951 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 3990 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 112 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 5260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2960 mm |
