1988 Ford Tempo vs. 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Ford Tempo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Ford Tempo would be higher. At 2,307 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Ford Tempo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata (178 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1988 Ford Tempo. (96 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1988 Ford Tempo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 42 kg more than 1988 Ford Tempo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata (220 Nm) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Ford Tempo. (176 Nm). This means 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Ford Tempo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Ford Tempo | 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Tempo | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2307 cc | 1835 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 96 HP | 178 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.5 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 85 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 1147 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2270 mm |
