2008 Ford Fiesta vs. 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2008 Ford Fiesta is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 30 kg more than 2008 Ford Fiesta.
Because 2003 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 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Ford Fiesta, 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, 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata (168 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Ford Fiesta. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Fiesta | 2003 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Fiesta | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1594 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 139 HP |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 188 km/hour | 205 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.5 seconds | 8.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3920 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.1 L/100km | 8.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 50 L |
