2005 Ford Fiesta vs. 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 5 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), 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata (124 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 2005 Ford Fiesta. (101 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2005 Ford Fiesta.
Because 2010 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 2010 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, 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Ford Fiesta. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2010 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 | 2010 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Fiesta | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2329 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 48 L |
