2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1999 Ford Focus
To start off, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Ford Focus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Ford Focus would be higher. At 1,835 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata (178 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1999 Ford Focus. (99 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1999 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Ford Focus weights approximately 93 kg more than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2005 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 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata (225 Nm) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Ford Focus. (146 Nm). This means 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1999 Ford Focus | |
| Make | Mazda | Ford |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Focus |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1835 cc | 1753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 178 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 81.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1147 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4390 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 55 L |
