1996 Ford Taurus vs. 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ford Taurus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Taurus would be higher. At 3,392 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Ford Taurus (235 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
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, 1996 Ford Taurus, 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, 1996 Ford Taurus (312 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1996 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 1996 Ford Taurus has automatic transmission and 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Ford Taurus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Ford Taurus | 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | Ford | Mazda |
Model | Taurus | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 1996 | 2010 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3392 cc | 1798 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 235 HP | 124 HP |
Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 312 Nm | 167 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 3995 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1245 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2329 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 48 L |