2008 Ford Focus vs. 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2008 Ford Focus is newer by 10 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 1,498 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata (112 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 2008 Ford Focus. (79 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2008 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Focus weights approximately 146 kg more than 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
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, 2008 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, 2008 Ford Focus (125 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (124 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Ford Focus | 1998 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | Ford | Mazda |
Model | Focus | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1388 cc | 1498 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 79 HP | 112 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 125 Nm | 124 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1171 kg | 1025 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4390 mm | 3960 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1680 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1240 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2270 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 50 L |