2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1963 NSU 1000 C
To start off, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 NSU 1000 C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 NSU 1000 C would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata (104 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1963 NSU 1000 C. (39 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1963 NSU 1000 C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 476 kg more than 1963 NSU 1000 C. 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. Let's talk about torque, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata (134 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1963 NSU 1000 C. (69 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1963 NSU 1000 C.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1963 NSU 1000 C | |
| Make | Mazda | NSU |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 1000 C |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1963 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 39 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 69 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 69 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 66.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 7.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1116 kg | 640 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2260 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 44 L |
