2001 Ford Laser vs. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2001 Ford Laser is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata (138 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 2001 Ford Laser. (105 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2001 Ford Laser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Ford Laser weights approximately 90 kg more than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 1999 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 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Ford Laser, 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 Mazda MX-5 Miata (162 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Ford Laser. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Ford Laser.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Ford Laser | 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Laser | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.3 mm | 85 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1115 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2270 mm |
