1997 Ford Mustang 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 Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford Mustang would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ford Mustang (212 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Mustang weights approximately 321 kg more than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Mustang | 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Mustang | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4942 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 212 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1476 kg | 1155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2340 mm |
