1994 Ford Probe 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 Probe. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Ford Probe would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 1994 Ford Probe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Ford Probe (161 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (140 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1994 Ford Probe should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 Ford Probe weights approximately 155 kg more than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 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 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, 1994 Ford Probe (212 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (160 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1994 Ford Probe will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 Ford Probe | 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Probe | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1994 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1839 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 212 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1230 mm |
