2008 Ford Ka vs. 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2008 Ford Ka is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata would be higher. At 1,835 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 2008 Ford Ka. (69 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2008 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 144 kg more than 2008 Ford Ka. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Ford Ka, 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, 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata (170 Nm) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Ford Ka. (106 Nm). This means 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Ka | 2004 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Ka | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1835 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 106 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 48 L |
