2005 Ford Taurus vs. 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2005 Ford Taurus is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 2,966 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Ford Taurus (153 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Ford Taurus weights approximately 333 kg more than 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Ford Taurus (266 Nm) has 137 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (129 Nm). This means 2005 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
2005 Ford Taurus | 1996 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | Ford | Mazda |
Model | Taurus | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2966 cc | 1596 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 153 HP | 89 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 266 Nm | 129 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 78 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 83.6 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1298 kg | 965 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 3960 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1680 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1240 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2270 mm |