1997 Ford Escort vs. 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,835 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata (178 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1997 Ford Escort. (74 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 67 kg more than 1997 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Ford Escort, 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, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata (220 Nm) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Escort. (114 Nm). This means 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Escort | 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Escort | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1391 cc | 1835 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 178 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 114 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1147 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1230 mm |
