1992 Ford Tempo vs. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 Ford Tempo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 Ford Tempo would be higher. At 2,307 cc (4 cylinders), 1992 Ford Tempo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (164 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1992 Ford Tempo. (97 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1992 Ford Tempo.
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, 1992 Ford Tempo, 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, 1992 Ford Tempo (171 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (140 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1992 Ford Tempo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 Ford Tempo | 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Tempo | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1992 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2307 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 97 HP | 164 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.5 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2340 mm |
