2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1956 Porsche 356
To start off, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 49 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Porsche 356. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Porsche 356 would be higher. At 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata (124 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1956 Porsche 356. (70 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1956 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 305 kg more than 1956 Porsche 356. 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:
| 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1956 Porsche 356 | |
| Make | Mazda | Porsche |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 356 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1956 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 1488 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 3860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2110 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 52 L |
