1985 Ford Taurus vs. 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Ford Taurus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Ford Taurus would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1985 Ford Taurus. (139 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1985 Ford Taurus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Ford Taurus weights approximately 306 kg more than 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2011 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 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 Ford Taurus, 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, 1985 Ford Taurus (217 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1985 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Ford Taurus | 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Taurus | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1139 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4910 mm | 3995 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1245 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2329 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 48 L |
