1983 Ford Tempo vs. 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Ford Tempo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Ford Tempo would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Ford Tempo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata (116 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1983 Ford Tempo. (51 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1983 Ford Tempo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Ford Tempo weights approximately 140 kg more than 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 1989 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 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Ford Tempo, 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, 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata (137 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Ford Tempo. (112 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Ford Tempo.
Compare all specifications:
1983 Ford Tempo | 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | Ford | Mazda |
Model | Tempo | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 1983 | 1989 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1598 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 51 HP | 116 HP |
Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 112 Nm | 137 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 970 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 3950 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1680 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1230 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2270 mm |