2004 Ford Escape vs. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2004 Ford Escape is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 2,966 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Ford Escape is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Escape (203 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (99 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Escape should accelerate faster than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Escape weights approximately 388 kg more than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 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 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Ford Escape, 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 Escape (272 Nm) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (245 Nm). This means 2004 Ford Escape will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Escape | 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Escape | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2001 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2966 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 203 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 272 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 85.1 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1443 kg | 1055 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2270 mm |
