1998 Ford Focus vs. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ford Focus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Focus would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (164 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1998 Ford Focus. (131 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Focus.
Because 2009 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 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Ford Focus, 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, 1998 Ford Focus (174 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (140 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Ford Focus | 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | Ford | Mazda |
Model | Focus | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1753 cc | 1999 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 131 HP | 164 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
Torque | 174 Nm | 140 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 87.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 83.1 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 19.4:1 | 10.8:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4030 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2340 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 50 L |