2005 Ford Fiesta vs. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (124 HP) has 50 more horse power than 2005 Ford Fiesta. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2005 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 161 kg more than 2005 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2005 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, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Ford Fiesta. (111 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Ford Fiesta | 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Fiesta | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 124 HP |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 994 kg | 1155 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 50 L |
