2003 Ford Ka vs. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Ford Ka. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Ford Ka would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (164 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 2003 Ford Ka. (69 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Ka.
Because 2009 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 2009 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, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (140 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Ka. (106 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 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 | 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Ka | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 164 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 106 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 50 L |
