1989 Ford Probe vs. 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Ford Probe. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Ford Probe would be higher. At 2,184 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Ford Probe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1989 Ford Probe. (108 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Probe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Ford Probe weights approximately 165 kg more than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2005 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 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 1989 Ford Probe (180 Nm) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (170 Nm). This means 1989 Ford Probe will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Probe | 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Probe | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2184 cc | 1835 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1085 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2270 mm |
