2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1969 NSU 1000
To start off, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 NSU 1000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 NSU 1000 would be higher. At 1,498 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata (112 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1969 NSU 1000. (64 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1969 NSU 1000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 345 kg more than 1969 NSU 1000. 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, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata (124 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 NSU 1000. (90 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 NSU 1000.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1969 NSU 1000 | |
| Make | Mazda | NSU |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 1000 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1969 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1177 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 112 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 90 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 66.3 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 680 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 3800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1500 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2260 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 37 L |
