2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1984 Ford Tempo
To start off, 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Ford Tempo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Ford Tempo would be higher. At 2,306 cc (4 cylinders), 1984 Ford Tempo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata (112 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1984 Ford Tempo. (89 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1984 Ford Tempo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1984 Ford Tempo weights approximately 80 kg more than 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2002 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 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1984 Ford Tempo, 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, 1984 Ford Tempo (170 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1984 Ford Tempo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 1984 Ford Tempo has automatic transmission and 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1984 Ford Tempo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1984 Ford Tempo | |
Make | Mazda | Ford |
Model | MX-5 Miata | Tempo |
Year Released | 2002 | 1984 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1498 cc | 2306 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 112 HP | 89 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4700 RPM |
Torque | 124 Nm | 170 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 1105 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4480 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2540 mm |