2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2011 Ford Fiesta
To start off, 2011 Ford Fiesta is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,600 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Ford Fiesta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Ford Fiesta (120 HP @ 6350 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (104 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Ford Fiesta should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Ford Fiesta weights approximately 35 kg more than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Ford Fiesta, 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, 2011 Ford Fiesta (152 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (134 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2011 Ford Fiesta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2011 Ford Fiesta | |
| Make | Mazda | Ford |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Fiesta |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6350 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 152 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1116 kg | 1151 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 4067 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1697 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2489 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 45 L |
