2004 Ford Taurus vs. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Ford Taurus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Ford Taurus would be higher. At 2,967 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (158 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2004 Ford Taurus. (155 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Taurus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Taurus weights approximately 392 kg more than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Ford Taurus, 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 Taurus (245 Nm) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (188 Nm). This means 2004 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Taurus | 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Taurus | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2967 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 155 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 188 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1586 kg | 1194 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.2 L/100km | 7.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 50 L |
