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 (112 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2002 Ford Focus. (109 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 175 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, 2002 Ford Focus (169 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2002 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
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 | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 112 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 50 L |
