2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1966 Wartburg 312
To start off, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Wartburg 312. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Wartburg 312 would be higher. At 1,835 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata (178 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 141 more horse power than 1966 Wartburg 312. (37 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1966 Wartburg 312. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 187 kg more than 1966 Wartburg 312. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1966 Wartburg 312, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata (225 Nm) has 143 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Wartburg 312. (82 Nm). This means 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Wartburg 312.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1966 Wartburg 312 | |
| Make | Mazda | Wartburg |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 312 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1966 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1835 cc | 900 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 178 HP | 37 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 82 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 70 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 6.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1147 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 43 L |
