1987 Ford Taurus vs. 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Ford Taurus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Ford Taurus would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 1987 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata (159 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1987 Ford Taurus. (138 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1987 Ford Taurus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Ford Taurus weights approximately 315 kg more than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2006 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 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 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, 1987 Ford Taurus (292 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1987 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
1987 Ford Taurus | 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | Ford | Mazda |
Model | Taurus | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 1987 | 2006 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3791 cc | 1999 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 159 HP |
Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6700 RPM |
Torque | 292 Nm | 188 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1155 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4910 mm | 4000 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1250 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2340 mm |