1990 Ford Probe vs. 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Ford Probe. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Ford Probe would be higher. At 2,184 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Ford Probe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata (124 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1990 Ford Probe. (108 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1990 Ford Probe.
Because 2010 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 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 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, 1990 Ford Probe (179 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1990 Ford Probe will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Ford Probe | 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Probe | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2184 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 179 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 3995 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1245 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2329 mm |
