2003 Ford Focus vs. 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2003 Ford Focus is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,989 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Focus (108 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Focus weights approximately 195 kg more than 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Ford Focus (169 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (129 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Ford Focus | 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | Ford | Mazda |
Model | Focus | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1989 cc | 1596 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 108 HP | 89 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 169 Nm | 129 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 78 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 83.6 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 965 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 3960 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1680 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1240 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2270 mm |