2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1966 Riley Kestrel
To start off, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 41 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Riley Kestrel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Riley Kestrel would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata (170 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1966 Riley Kestrel. (53 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1966 Riley Kestrel.
Because 2007 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 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1966 Riley Kestrel, 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, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 107 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Riley Kestrel. (83 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Riley Kestrel.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1966 Riley Kestrel | |
| Make | Mazda | Riley |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Kestrel |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1966 |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1098 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 83 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 3730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1540 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2380 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 25 L |
