1989 Ford Probe vs. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 20 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 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 Ford Probe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Ford Probe (140 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Ford Probe should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Ford Probe weights approximately 165 kg more than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 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 (217 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1989 Ford Probe will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Probe | 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Probe | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1315 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 50 L |
