1986 Ford Orion vs. 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Ford Orion. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Ford Orion would be higher. At 1,839 cc (4 cylinders), 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata (99 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1986 Ford Orion. (90 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Orion. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 855 kg more than 1986 Ford Orion. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2000 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 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Ford Orion, 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, 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata (230 Nm) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Orion. (133 Nm). This means 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Orion. 1986 Ford Orion has automatic transmission and 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 Ford Orion will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Orion | 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Orion | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2000 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 1839 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2270 mm |
