1994 Ford Fiesta vs. 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata

To start off, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 1,839 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata (140 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1994 Ford Fiesta. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1994 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 177 kg more than 1994 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

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, 1994 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, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata (160 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Ford Fiesta. (135 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Ford Fiesta.

Compare all specifications:

1994 Ford Fiesta 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata
Make Ford Mazda
Model Fiesta MX-5 Miata
Year Released 1994 2005
Body Type Hatchback Convertible
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1597 cc 1839 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 90 HP 140 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 7000 RPM
Torque 135 Nm 160 Nm
Torque RPM 3000 RPM 5000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 76 mm 83 mm
Engine Stroke Size 88 mm 85 mm
Top Speed 175 km/hour 205 km/hour
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 963 kg 1140 kg
Vehicle Length 3720 mm 3980 mm
Vehicle Width 1620 mm 1690 mm
Vehicle Height 1400 mm 1230 mm
Wheelbase Size 2480 mm 2270 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 42 L 50 L