2006 Ford Fusion vs. 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2006 Ford Fusion is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 2,277 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Ford Fusion is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Ford Fusion (160 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (112 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Ford Fusion should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Ford Fusion weights approximately 1831 kg more than 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 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 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Ford Fusion, 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 Fusion (212 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2006 Ford Fusion will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Ford Fusion | 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Fusion | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2277 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 112 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 212 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2856 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 66 L | 50 L |
