2002 Ford Focus vs. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2002 Ford Focus is newer by 3 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 1,989 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata (110 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2002 Ford Focus. (108 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2002 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Focus weights approximately 44 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, 2002 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, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata (241 Nm) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Ford Focus. (169 Nm). This means 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ford Focus | 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Focus | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 1839 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 241 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 85.1 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1164 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2270 mm |
