1997 Ford Mustang vs. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 12 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 4,600 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 189 kg more than 1997 Ford Mustang.
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. Let's talk about torque, 1997 Ford Mustang (678 Nm) has 487 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (191 Nm). This means 1997 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Mustang | 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Mustang | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4600 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 167 HP |
| Torque | 678 Nm | 191 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 936 kg | 1125 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2340 mm |
