Japan vs USA — 2002 vs 2015
| MX-5 NB 1.8 VVT | Mustang Shelby GT350 5.2L Voodoo V8 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 146 hp | 526 hp |
| Torque | 123 lb-ft | 429 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,839 cc | 5,163 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 7.5 sec | 4.3 sec |
| Top Speed | 130 mph | 174 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 15.8 sec | 12.5 sec |
| Weight | 2,348 lbs | 3,648 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,265 mm | 2,720 mm |
| Length | 3,955 mm | 4,784 mm |
| Units Produced | 289,000 | — |
| Original MSRP | $22,300 | $59,440 |
| Value (Excellent) | $18,000 | $85,000 |
| Collectibility | 6/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 3/10 | 5/10 |
The 2015 Ford Mustang Shelby GT350 5.2L Voodoo V8 emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 2002 Mazda MX-5 NB 1.8 VVT counters with lighter weight, better value, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.
Putting the 2002 Mazda MX-5 NB 1.8 VVT against the 2015 Ford Mustang Shelby GT350 5.2L Voodoo V8 is a comparison that enthusiasts have debated for decades. Each car reflects distinct design philosophies shaped by different automotive cultures — Japan versus USA. The 2015 Ford Mustang Shelby GT350 5.2L Voodoo V8 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 526 hp compared to 146 hp, a 380-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Mazda MX-5 uses a Inline-4 DOHC displacing 1,839 cc, while the Ford Mustang Shelby GT350 relies on a V8 DOHC 32V flat-plane crank with 5,163 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 2015 Ford Mustang Shelby GT350 5.2L Voodoo V8 edges ahead at 4.3 seconds versus 7.5 seconds. The Mazda MX-5 carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 1300 lbs lighter. On the collector market, the 2015 Ford Mustang Shelby GT350 5.2L Voodoo V8 commands a significant premium over the 2002 Mazda MX-5 NB 1.8 VVT, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 2015 Ford Mustang Shelby GT350 5.2L Voodoo V8 rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.