1983 Ford Fiesta vs. 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata (125 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1983 Ford Fiesta. (40 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1983 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 440 kg more than 1983 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 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 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Ford Fiesta, 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, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Ford Fiesta. (64 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
1983 Ford Fiesta | 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | Ford | Mazda |
Model | Fiesta | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 1983 | 2006 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 957 cc | 1798 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 40 HP | 125 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 64 Nm | 167 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 55.7 mm | 83.1 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 10.8:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 715 kg | 1155 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 4000 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1250 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2340 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 50 L |