2005 Ford Focus vs. 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2005 Ford Focus is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,835 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata (178 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 2005 Ford Focus. (100 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2005 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Ford Focus weights approximately 24 kg more than 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Ford Focus, 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 Mazda MX-5 Miata (220 Nm) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Ford Focus. (145 Nm). This means 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Ford Focus | 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Focus | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1594 cc | 1835 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 178 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1171 kg | 1147 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 48 L |
