2000 Ford Focus vs. 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2000 Ford Focus is newer by 9 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 2,260 cc (4 cylinders), 2000 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Ford Focus (143 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (116 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Ford Focus weights approximately 245 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, 2000 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, 2000 Ford Focus (203 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (130 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2000 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Ford Focus | 1991 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Focus | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2260 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2270 mm |
