1987 Ford Probe vs. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Ford Probe. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Ford Probe would be higher. At 2,183 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Ford Probe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (166 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1987 Ford Probe. (108 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1987 Ford Probe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Ford Probe weights approximately 59 kg more than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Ford Probe, 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, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Ford Probe. (179 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Ford Probe.
Compare all specifications:
1987 Ford Probe | 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | Ford | Mazda |
Model | Probe | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 1987 | 2008 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2183 cc | 1998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 108 HP | 166 HP |
Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 6700 RPM |
Torque | 179 Nm | 190 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 87.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 83.1 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1191 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4000 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1250 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2340 mm |