2001 Ford Explorer vs. 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Ford Explorer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Ford Explorer would be higher. At 4,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 2001 Ford Explorer. (128 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2001 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Ford Explorer weights approximately 69 kg more than 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2001 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Ford Explorer will offer significantly more control. 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, 2001 Ford Explorer (320 Nm) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (190 Nm). This means 2001 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2001 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Ford Explorer | 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Explorer | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4000 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 128 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1208 kg | 1139 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5240 mm | 3995 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1245 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3200 mm | 2329 mm |
