2001 Ford Focus vs. 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Ford Focus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Ford Focus would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata (158 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 2001 Ford Focus. (128 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2001 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Ford Focus weights approximately 155 kg more than 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2007 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 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Ford Focus (386 Nm) has 198 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (188 Nm). This means 2001 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Ford Focus | 2007 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Focus | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 128 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 386 Nm | 188 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1095 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2340 mm |
