2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1968 Volkswagen 1302
To start off, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Volkswagen 1302. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Volkswagen 1302 would be higher. At 1,835 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata (178 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 129 more horse power than 1968 Volkswagen 1302. (49 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1968 Volkswagen 1302. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 337 kg more than 1968 Volkswagen 1302. 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, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata (220 Nm) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Volkswagen 1302. (108 Nm). This means 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Volkswagen 1302.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1968 Volkswagen 1302 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 1302 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1968 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1835 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 178 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 85.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 69 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1147 kg | 810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 40 L |
