1985 Ford Tempo vs. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Ford Tempo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Ford Tempo would be higher. At 2,307 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Ford Tempo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (158 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1985 Ford Tempo. (90 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1985 Ford Tempo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 102 kg more than 1985 Ford Tempo. 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, 1985 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, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Ford Tempo. (170 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Ford Tempo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Ford Tempo | 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Tempo | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2307 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 188 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 1207 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2340 mm |
