1998 Ford Tracer vs. 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA
To start off, 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ford Tracer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Tracer would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA (165 HP) has 98 more horse power than 1998 Ford Tracer. (67 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Tracer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA weights approximately 217 kg more than 1998 Ford Tracer. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2013 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 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Ford Tracer, 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, 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Tracer. (102 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Tracer.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Tracer | 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Tracer | MX-5 MIATA |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1323 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 165 HP |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1182 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4032 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1255 mm |
