1986 Ford Tempo vs. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Ford Tempo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Ford Tempo would be higher. At 2,307 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Ford Tempo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata (110 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1986 Ford Tempo. (89 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1986 Ford Tempo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 15 kg more than 1986 Ford Tempo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 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 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata (241 Nm) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Ford Tempo. (170 Nm). This means 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Ford Tempo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Ford Tempo | 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Tempo | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2307 cc | 1839 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 241 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.1 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 85.1 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 1120 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 |
