2006 Ford Focus vs. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata

To start off, 2006 Ford Focus is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,835 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata (155 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 2006 Ford Focus. (113 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2006 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 369 kg more than 2006 Ford Focus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2001 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 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Ford Focus (250 Nm) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (171 Nm). This means 2006 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata.

Compare all specifications:

2006 Ford Focus 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata
Make Ford Mazda
Model Focus MX-5 Miata
Year Released 2006 2001
Body Type Sedan Convertible
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1753 cc 1835 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 113 HP 155 HP
Engine RPM 3800 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 250 Nm 171 Nm
Engine Bore Size 82.5 mm 83.1 mm
Engine Stroke Size 82 mm 85.1 mm
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1302 kg 1671 kg
Vehicle Length 4390 mm 3960 mm
Vehicle Width 1710 mm 1680 mm
Vehicle Height 1490 mm 1230 mm
Wheelbase Size 2620 mm 2270 mm