2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1949 Porsche 356
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 60 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1949 Porsche 356. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1949 Porsche 356 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 1949 Porsche 356. (38 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1949 Porsche 356. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 315 kg more than 1949 Porsche 356. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1949 Porsche 356 | |
| Make | Mazda | Porsche |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 356 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1949 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1131 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 780 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 3870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1250 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2110 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 79 L |
