2008 Ford Focus 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 Focus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Ford Focus would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA (165 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 2008 Ford Focus. (99 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA should accelerate faster than 2008 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA weights approximately 7 kg more than 2008 Ford Focus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

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 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, 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Ford Focus. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Ford Focus.

Compare all specifications:

2008 Ford Focus 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA
Make Ford Mazda
Model Focus MX-5 MIATA
Year Released 2008 2013
Body Type Sedan Convertible
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1596 cc 1999 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 99 HP 165 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 7000 RPM
Torque 145 Nm 190 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 5000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 79 mm 87 mm
Engine Stroke Size 81.4 mm 83 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 11.0:1 10.8:1
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual 6-speed manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1175 kg 1182 kg
Vehicle Length 4490 mm 4032 mm
Vehicle Width 2000 mm 1720 mm
Vehicle Height 1450 mm 1255 mm
Wheelbase Size 2620 mm 2330 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 55 L 48 L