2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 45 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata (160 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (34 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia.
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, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (84 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1961 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 84 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.6 mm | 77.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 64 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3990 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 40 L |
