2002 Ford Explorer vs. 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Ford Explorer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Ford Explorer would be higher. At 4,947 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Ford Explorer (212 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (178 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Explorer weights approximately 863 kg more than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Ford Explorer (390 Nm) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (220 Nm). This means 2002 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ford Explorer | 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Explorer | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2004 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4947 cc | 1835 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 212 HP | 178 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 390 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 101.6 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 85 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2010 kg | 1147 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2270 mm |
