2008 Ford Escape vs. 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA
To start off, 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Ford Escape. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Ford Escape would be higher. At 2,299 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Ford Escape is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA (165 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 2008 Ford Escape. (134 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA should accelerate faster than 2008 Ford Escape. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Escape weights approximately 533 kg more than 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA.
Because 2013 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 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Ford Escape, 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, 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Ford Escape. (168 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Ford Escape. 2008 Ford Escape has automatic transmission and 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA has manual transmission. 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Ford Escape will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Escape | 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Escape | MX-5 MIATA |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2013 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2299 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.4 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.3:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1715 kg | 1182 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4032 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1255 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2330 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 48 L |
