2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1962 Mazda R 360
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 46 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Mazda R 360. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Mazda R 360 would be higher. At 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (140 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 124 more horse power than 1962 Mazda R 360. (16 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1962 Mazda R 360. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 760 kg more than 1962 Mazda R 360. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (168 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 146 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Mazda R 360. (22 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Mazda R 360.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1962 Mazda R 360 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | R 360 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1962 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 355 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 16 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 22 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 60 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 63 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 2990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1300 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 1770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |
