2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1971 Volkswagen 1600
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Volkswagen 1600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Volkswagen 1600 would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (158 HP) has 105 more horse power than 1971 Volkswagen 1600. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1971 Volkswagen 1600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 219 kg more than 1971 Volkswagen 1600. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Volkswagen 1600. (110 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Volkswagen 1600.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1971 Volkswagen 1600 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 1600 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1194 kg | 975 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.7 L/100km | 6.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 40 L |
