2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1972 Volkswagen K 70
To start off, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Volkswagen K 70. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Volkswagen K 70 would be higher. At 1,605 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 Volkswagen K 70 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata (112 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1972 Volkswagen K 70. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1972 Volkswagen K 70. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Volkswagen K 70 weights approximately 25 kg more than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
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, 1972 Volkswagen K 70, 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, both vehicles can yield 124 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1972 Volkswagen K 70 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | K 70 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1605 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 112 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 76 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 45 L |
