1989 Ford Fiesta vs. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 1,799 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata (99 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1989 Ford Fiesta. (76 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 155 kg more than 1989 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 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 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Ford Fiesta, 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, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata (245 Nm) has 113 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Fiesta. (132 Nm). This means 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Ford Fiesta | 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | Ford | Mazda |
Model | Fiesta | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 1989 | 2001 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1753 cc | 1799 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 76 HP | 99 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 132 Nm | 245 Nm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 900 kg | 1055 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3750 mm | 3960 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1680 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1230 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2270 mm |