1999 Ford Fiesta vs. 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 1999 Ford Fiesta is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,599 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Ford Fiesta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Ford Fiesta (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (116 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Ford Fiesta should accelerate faster than 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Ford Fiesta weights approximately 21 kg more than 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1991 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 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Ford Fiesta, 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 Fiesta (170 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (130 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1999 Ford Fiesta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Ford Fiesta | 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Fiesta | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.4 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 976 kg | 955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3830 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 50 L |
