1997 Ford Ka vs. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata

To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Ford Ka. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford Ka would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (166 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 107 more horse power than 1997 Ford Ka. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 449 kg more than 1997 Ford Ka. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2008 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 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Ford Ka, 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, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Ka. (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Ka.

Compare all specifications:

1997 Ford Ka 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata
Make Ford Mazda
Model Ka MX-5 Miata
Year Released 1997 2008
Body Type Hatchback Convertible
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1299 cc 1999 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 59 HP 166 HP
Engine RPM 5000 RPM 6700 RPM
Torque 105 Nm 190 Nm
Torque RPM 2500 RPM 5000 RPM
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 880 kg 1329 kg
Vehicle Length 3630 mm 4000 mm
Vehicle Width 1640 mm 1730 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1250 mm
Wheelbase Size 2460 mm 2340 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 40 L 48 L


 

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