2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1980 Porsche 936
To start off, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Porsche 936. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Porsche 936 would be higher. At 2,141 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Porsche 936 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Porsche 936 (573 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 435 more horse power than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Porsche 936 should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 385 kg more than 1980 Porsche 936.
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 | 1980 Porsche 936 | |
| Make | Mazda | Porsche |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 936 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1835 cc | 2141 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 573 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1085 kg | 700 kg |
