1999 Ford Cougar vs. 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Ford Cougar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Ford Cougar would be higher. At 2,544 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Ford Cougar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Ford Cougar (168 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Ford Cougar should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2006 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 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Ford Cougar, 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, 1999 Ford Cougar (220 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (188 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1999 Ford Cougar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Ford Cougar | 2006 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Cougar | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2544 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 188 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
