1998 Ford Explorer vs. 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ford Explorer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Explorer would be higher. At 3,996 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1998 Ford Explorer. (160 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Explorer weights approximately 775 kg more than 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Let's talk about torque, 1998 Ford Explorer (311 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 121 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Explorer | 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Explorer | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3996 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 311 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1900 kg | 1125 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 3995 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1840 mm | 1245 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2329 mm |
