1996 Ford Tracer vs. 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ford Tracer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Tracer would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata (153 HP) has 86 more horse power than 1996 Ford Tracer. (67 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Tracer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 89 kg more than 1996 Ford Tracer. 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, 1996 Ford Tracer, 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 (189 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Tracer. (101 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Tracer.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Tracer | 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Tracer | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1323 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 153 HP |
| Torque | 101 Nm | 189 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1055 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1250 mm |
