2008 Ford Focus vs. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2008 Ford Focus is newer by 7 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 1,987 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Focus (212 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (134 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Focus weights approximately 215 kg more than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 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, 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 (310 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 147 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (163 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2008 Ford Focus has automatic transmission and 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Ford Focus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Ford Focus | 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | Ford | Mazda |
Model | Focus | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 2008 | 2001 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1987 cc | 1840 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 212 HP | 134 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 310 Nm | 163 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84.8 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 85 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1065 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 3980 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1230 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2270 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 50 L |