2004 Ford C-MAX vs. 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2004 Ford C-MAX is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata (110 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2004 Ford C-MAX. (104 HP @ 6150 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford C-MAX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford C-MAX weights approximately 332 kg more than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 1999 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 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Ford C-MAX, 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, 2004 Ford C-MAX (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (134 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2004 Ford C-MAX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford C-MAX | 1999 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | C-MAX | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1560 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6150 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.4 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 1038 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 50 L |
