1990 Ford Fiesta vs. 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata (170 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1990 Ford Fiesta. (133 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1990 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 500 kg more than 1990 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1990 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, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Ford Fiesta. (183 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Ford Fiesta | 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Fiesta | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 133 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 910 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 48 L |
