2008 Ford S-Max vs. 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2008 Ford S-Max 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 2,521 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Ford S-Max is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford S-Max (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (155 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford S-Max should accelerate faster than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford S-Max weights approximately 10 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 S-Max, 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 S-Max (320 Nm) has 149 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (171 Nm). This means 2008 Ford S-Max will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford S-Max | 2001 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | S-Max | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2521 cc | 1835 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 155 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.2 mm | 85.1 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1681 kg | 1671 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2270 mm |
