2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1966 Saab 96
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 43 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Saab 96. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Saab 96 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 @ 6700 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1966 Saab 96. (63 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1966 Saab 96. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 165 kg more than 1966 Saab 96. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1966 Saab 96, 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, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Saab 96. (115 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Saab 96.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1966 Saab 96 | |
Make | Mazda | Saab |
Model | MX-5 Miata | 96 |
Year Released | 2009 | 1966 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1498 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 158 HP | 63 HP |
Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 4700 RPM |
Torque | 188 Nm | 115 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 90 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 58.9 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 9.0:1 |
Top Speed | 210 km/hour | 145 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 930 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4310 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1250 mm | 1600 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2510 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 38 L |