2003 Ford Ka vs. 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2003 Ford Ka is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata (116 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 2003 Ford Ka. (69 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 8 kg more than 2003 Ford Ka. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 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 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Ford Ka, 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, 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata (137 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Ka. (106 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Ford Ka | 1989 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | Ford | Mazda |
Model | Ka | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 2003 | 1989 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1598 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 69 HP | 116 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 106 Nm | 137 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 78 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 83.6 mm |
Top Speed | 167 km/hour | 188 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 962 kg | 970 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 3950 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1680 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1230 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2270 mm |